Ukrainian professional boxing has a new world champion. In the Belgian city of Erstal, Anastasia Petrenko defeated an experienced Mexican opponent and won the IBO title.
Triumph in Belgium: a historic success for a Ukrainian
On the night of March 29, the "Hall des sports M. Daerden" arena became the site of a triumph for Ukrainian boxing. The main event was the fight for the vacant world super-lightweight title.
30-year-old Anastasia Petrenko faced Mexico’s Maria Soledad Vargas. Despite her opponent’s experience, Petrenko seized the initiative from the very first seconds, preventing Vargas from closing the distance thanks to her active footwork and precise punches.
Although the Mexican tried to turn the tide of the fight with powerful punches, Anastasia’s defense was flawless.
Judges’ decision and fight statistics
The fight lasted all ten rounds. In the second half, Petrenko slowed down slightly but continued to effectively counterattack her opponent. In the end, all three judges unanimously awarded the victory to the Ukrainian athlete.
