Northland boxer Lani Daniels and New Zealand-born Samoan Alrie Meleisea are set to face off for the title at Eventfinda Stadium in Auckland this weekend. Daniels holds a record of 7 wins, 2 losses, and 2 draws, with her only defeats coming against WBO world champion Perez. Meleisea, on the other hand, has a record of 6 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw and currently holds two New Zealand heavyweight titles and a former UBF Asia Pacific heavyweight championship.
In terms of experience, Daniels has a more diverse background, having fought in multiple weight divisions as both a professional and amateur boxer. On the other hand, Meleisea has primarily competed in the heavyweight division but has also ventured into MMA and kickboxing, showcasing her potential to cause upsets. Both boxers share a similar height, but Daniels holds the reach advantage.
Samoan Kiwi boxer Joseph Parker has expressed his support for both fighters but has shown a preference for his “Samoan sister” to secure the victory. Parker recognizes the immense significance of the IBF-sanctioned fight, not only for women’s boxing but also for the sport as a whole. He highlights that this event will mark the first time New Zealand-born boxers compete against each other for a world title.
For Daniels, this fight may potentially mark the end of her boxing career, while Meleisea plans to continue fighting regardless of the outcome.
