Lani Daniels emerged victorious as the new IBF women’s world heavyweight champion, outclassing Alrie Meleisea in a 10-round showdown held in Auckland last night. It marked a historic moment as both boxers hailed from New Zealand, creating the first-ever world title clash between two Kiwi fighters. Daniels dominated the entire bout, displaying superior skills and confidence, which was evident in her celebratory demeanor at the end.
The judges’ unanimous decision reflected Daniels’ dominance, scoring the fight 98-92, 98-92, and 99-91 in her favor. Employing a devastating uppercut and swift footwork, known as “The Smiling Assassin,” Daniels dictated the pace and made Meleisea’s night a grueling one. Despite a strong showing in the later rounds, Meleisea endured a bloody face but valiantly stayed in the contest, ultimately suffering her second career defeat.
Daniels, a three-time New Zealand champion, had previously stated that she would retire unless a significant payday presented itself. However, after securing the world title, she left the door open for a potential return to the ring, not immediately capping her career. The Whangarei native’s remarkable journey to becoming the IBF women’s world heavyweight champion was accompanied by a spectacular entrance, featuring a powerful haka and waiata.
In the initial rounds, Daniels showcased consistent offense, gradually seizing control from the fifth round onward. She even managed to break Meleisea’s nose, causing crimson to flow. Although Meleisea fought valiantly, she couldn’t recover and suffered her second loss in her professional career.
After the decision was announced, the fighters embraced in a show of sportsmanship. This historic fight between Daniels and Meleisea represented the first world title contest between Māori and Pasifika fighters, the inaugural Pasifika female to vie for a world title, and the first world title clash between two New Zealand-born boxers. Daniels’ triumph adds her name to the illustrious list of Māori world boxing champions, becoming the fourth individual to achieve this distinction.
