Punching their way out of poverty

Women boxers are often perceived as rough and violent. MWANGI MUIRURI talked to three of them and found out that their biggest enemy is not their opponent…

Charity Mwihaki, 25

Humble beginnings

Born to a peasant family in Meru district, I stumbled into boxing by accident.

I had finished primary education hoping to study further and later be employed as an air stewardess.

Sarah Indisi

Sponsorship now available

I will never forget my lowest moment in the 2008’s fight with Kaluki. Whereas the promoters had promised me Sh16,000, they ended up paying me Sh4,000. But on the bright side, we female boxers have landed a sponsor under the umbrella Boxing Girls International. The reputation of women boxers resorting to immoral lifestyles might soon die.

We are sportswomen

Boxing is a sport not a fight. I want to see the game appreciated, and not just associated with bloody violence, bullies and gangsters.

Laila Ali — A Living Boxing Legend

Laila Ali, daughter of male boxer legend Mohamed Ali, is rated the most refined female boxer in the world.

Known for her disciplined and dogged style in the ring, with a talent for brutal combinations.

Boasts a flawless 24-0 record with 21 wins coming by straight knockouts.

Began her career in 1999 with a first-round knock out and posted straight eight wins that led to a high-profile bout between her and Jackie Frazier.

The bout was termed as ‘enemies’ daughters’.

This was because Frazier is the daughter of the famous Muhammad Ali’s rival, Joe Frazier.

Laila won by referee decision after eight rounds.

In the course of her career, Laila has earned a permanent scar from a brawl with Valerie Mahfood.

Also participated in what is often considered the most violent women’s Boxing match ever when she defeated Erin Toughill in a fist-pounding 2005 grudge match.

Gave birth to a son in August, 2008.

Pundits argue that, if Laila wants to retain her reputation as the toughest woman boxer on earth, at some point she will have to fight Ann Wolfe.

Wolfe is reputed for hard hitting and has publicly been accusing Laila of "Forever making excuses to avoid fighting me".