Natasha Jonas and Lauren Price are set to clash in a welterweight world title unification fight, where the WBC, IBF, and WBA belts will be on the line. The highly anticipated match will take place at the Royal Albert Hall on Friday night.
Boxing experts and those who have trained with both fighters are offering their perspectives on this compelling battle of wills and boxing skills.
Caroline Dubois, the WBC lightweight world champion who is also fighting on Friday, has experience sparring with both Jonas and Price. She acknowledges the strengths of both champions, noting Jonas’s resilience and Price’s proven amateur success.
Dubois commented, “I respect both fighters. Natasha has consistently proven me wrong whenever I’ve doubted her. I sparred with Tasha a long time ago when I was very young, and she has improved significantly since then.”
She added, “They are both sharp, southpaw fighters, excellent counter-punchers, and both possess power, which makes for an exciting matchup. While Natasha believes Lauren is under more pressure, I think they both face significant pressure, primarily the pressure they place on themselves.”
Bianca Cook, a taekwondo athlete who previously lived with Price and trained with Jonas, highlights the contrasting paths of the two fighters. “Lauren is the rising star, and the question is whether the newcomer will triumph, or will the experienced champion prevail,” Cook stated.
“Natasha has faced challenges throughout her boxing career and achieved success later on, whereas Lauren has excelled in the amateur ranks, winning Olympic gold and headlining shows early in her professional career. They represent different journeys, but they are now on a collision course.”
Cook emphasizes the crucial role of determination for both fighters. “[Lauren is thinking] this is my chance to take everything from her and become the next big thing. Natasha needs to remain composed, utilize her experience, and block out any distractions.”
Cindy Ngamba, an Olympic bronze medalist who has sparred extensively with both Price and Jonas, praises them as “amazing boxers and female role models.”
Ngamba believes, “Both fighters are incredibly hungry and humble, possessing the typical boxer’s mentality of always wanting more. They thrive on victory, overcoming obstacles, and achieving their goals.”
She concludes, “I think this will be a memorable night for women’s boxing for years to come.”
Expert Predictions
Mikaela Mayer (WBO Welterweight Champion):
“I don’t think Price is guaranteed to win. It’s a very competitive fight. Jonas needs to prevent Price from pushing her back, but Price generally doesn’t push forward aggressively. She prefers to box and move. My prediction is Price by a close decision, but it depends on who has the better strategy. Personally, I’m rooting for Jonas for personal reasons.”
Savannah Marshall (IBF World Champion):
“It’s a difficult fight for both. I fluctuate between picking one and the other. I’m a big fan of Lauren, but I’m leaning towards Tash because Natasha has proven in her past fights that she can never be underestimated. I’m predicting a close points win for Jonas.”
Callum Smith (WBO Interim Titlist):
“It’s a fantastic fight. I’ve known Tasha for a long time. I’m a big admirer; she’s brilliant and has been great for women’s boxing, as has Lauren Price. Team Price might think they are facing Tasha at the right moment, but hopefully not. If Natasha performs as she has been, the best version of Tasha will win. It’s a great showcase for the sport, and I’d watch it as a fan. But I’m definitely Team Jonas.”
Kirstie Bavington (European Champion):
“I sparred with Jonas before her fight with Katie Taylor, and I’ve boxed Lauren. I’m predicting Price to win on points. However, both are powerful punchers, so we will see. It’s going to be a good fight.”
Dave Coldwell (Top Trainer):
“Tasha has competed in many high-profile fights before. She’s experienced tough battles and overcome adversity. Despite being 40, she shows no significant decline. Price is very talented but hasn’t faced the level of competition or pressure that Tasha has in her professional career. While Price might be quicker, Tasha’s varied shot selection and power will secure her a points victory in the later rounds.”
Raven Chapman (World Title Challenger):
“It’s a very even fight, a 50-50. Both bring different strengths. I’m slightly favoring Tasha. Her experience, hunger to win, and recent form are impressive. She’s not ready to retire yet.”
Amy Andrew (Commonwealth Champion):
“I’m going with Jonas. Lauren is a fantastic and strong boxer with extensive amateur experience. However, Natasha’s professional experience will likely be crucial in this fight.”
Matt Christie (Boxing Journalist):
“One wonders if this fight has come too late for Jonas or too early for Price. Either scenario is possible, adding to the intrigue. Jonas had planned to retire by now, but expect her to be in top shape, both physically and mentally, eager to teach Price a lesson. Despite this, I predict Price will win, possibly dominating for periods and securing a decision victory, marking a passing of the torch moment for Jonas.”
