Katie Taylor retained her undisputed Lightweight world title with a 10-round unanimous decision over an overmatched Miriam Gutierrez at the SSE Arena in London.

At the end of round four, Taylor dropped Gutierrez with a hard right-left combination. Taylor beat up Gutierrez, who hung in the fight, only to keep eating some vicious shots from Taylor.

Taylor, 134.7 lbs Bray, IRE won by scores of 100-89, 100-90 and 99-91 and is now 17-0. Gutierrez, 134.6 lbs of Madrid, SPA is 13-1.

“I thought it was a great overall performance,” Taylor told Matchroom afterwards. “I boxed well at long distance and close. I did a bit of everything in there tonight. I threw everything but the kitchen sink at her. I just couldn’t get her out of there. She’s tough as nails so credit to her. She hung in and she was there to fight until the very end. She’s obviously big and strong and that showed tonight. 

“I thought it was important for me to stamp my authority right from the first round. She hadn’t fought outside of Spain and was out of the ring for a year. I thought it would be good to start fast. I thought I was going to get her out of there at one stage. She hung in there and she kept swinging shots. She was actually very dangerous when she was swinging shots. I had to be a bit more cautious later on in the fight. Overall it was a great performance. 

“Obviously I would have loved to get a stoppage in there tonight. I haven’t got a stoppage in a long time. It is hard to hurt these girls, they’re very strong and durable. I did everything that I could to get the stoppage but she hung in and I have to be happy with a points win. I’m going home with all of the belts and I’m still the undisputed champion. I’m still unbeaten and this is a great end to the year.

“This was absolutely huge. I think every girl on the card tonight boxed brilliantly. Three fantastic fights. It’s just an amazing showcase. As I’ve said before, Eddie has given us this platform. Women’s boxing is on fire right now because of the platform he has given us. What an amazing few years of women’s boxing. That’s what it’s all about for myself, inspiring the next generation. Hopefully there was a few young girls watching through Facebook on the livestream. It’s all about inspiring the next generation and what an amazing platform to do it on.”

Harper Stops Thanderz in 9; Retains 130 lb. Title

Terri Harper retained the WBC Super Featherweight title with a 9th round stoppage over preciously undefeated mandatory challenger Katharina Thanderz.

Harper battered Thanderz, and in round nine, she landed hard body shots that broke the spirit of Thanderz, and the fight was stopped at 1:12 after barrage of punches.

Harper, 129.5 lbs of Denaby, ENG is 11-0-1 with six knockouts. Thanderz, 127.9 lbs of Oslo, NOR is 13-1.

“I’m buzzing,” said Harper. “That’s my birthday and Christmas all in one. That’s made my year. Obviously having that tough fight with Tasha, there was doubts, and there was wrongs that I needed to put right. We came away and I’ve worked my butt off. I’ve just gone out there and breezed it.

“I hurt my hand in the fourth round, I couldn’t throw it, and when I did throw it it was painful. I stuck to my jab, kept long and just moved. I knew she got frustrated at one point. She stood in the middle of the ring. I didn’t want to look like I was running but there was nothing else that I could really do. I’m happy.

“I caught her with the head, that’s probably from me lunging in, accidental. I could see that her nose was troubling her. The sound of her breathing changed. She was getting distracted by the blood. I threw a nice left hook to the body, caught her and I heard her wince. She backed off and I just went for the kill and the ref jumped in.

“I got a few stoppage wins early on in my career so it’s nice to get another one. I’m going to say a big thank you to my S&C coach Danny Wilson, he’s given me the confidence that I can go through those gears and that I have got the strength. God knows what I’m going to be like after my next camp. I want to fight the best. I’m coming for you Mayer! Slowly but surely we’ll get there and I’ll be punching you in the face very soon.”

Ball Decisions Guanini; Wins Interim Super Bantamweight Title

Rachel Ball won the vacant Interim WBC Super Bantamweight title with a 10-round unanimous decision over Jorgelina Guanini.

Ball, 121.9 lbs of Aldridge, ENG won by scores of 99-91 twice and 99-92 to raise her mark to 7-1. Guanini, 125.7 lbs of Buenos Aries, ARG is 9-2-2.

“I’m so grateful to Matchroom and BCB for continuing to support my journey,” said Ball. “I felt confident that it was mine. I was landing my shots pretty well. She was running around the ring and I feel like I used my distance a lot better. 

“Everything happens for a reason and perhaps she was what I needed at this time. Fair play to her, it was a really good fight. I’m glad I used my assets a bit more in this fight. When I had the opportunity I did go forwards. I went to the body a bit more which I’m pleased about.

“Look how far Terri has gone and look how far Katie has gone. I’d love to be able to be as successful as them. That would be amazing. It’s all good experience. I hope we inspire some girls out there to try boxing and do something different.”

Jack Cullen survived a knockdown early in round one to eek out a 10-round unanimous decision over previously undefeated John Docherty in a super middleweight bout.

Docherty dropped Cullen in the opening 30 seconds with a left on the inside. In round three, Docherty was cut under his right eye.

Cullen began to grind out rounds and won by scores of 96-94 twice and 95-94.

Cullen, 167.7 lbs of Little Leaver, UK is 19-2-1. Docherty, 116.9 lbs of Montrose, SCO is 9-1.

“First round I ended up slipping on my ass,” Cullen told Matchroom afterwards. “If people thought it was a knockdown, it wasn’t. I had to work and push it. Every time I went back to the corner Michael and Dave said, ‘look, you need to get stuck in here and dig deep’. That’s what I feel like I did to win the fight. 

“That’s the first time I’d ever fought a southpaw. I was getting caught with stupid shots for the first couple of rounds. It was time to tuck up and dig deep. I feel like I was really coming on after the fourth round. I still feel like it was a big step up for him.

“I take my hat off to him for taking the fight. We were supposed to be fighting different people tonight. We’re young and we’ll fight anybody, there’s no reason not to. There’s a lot more for me to work on. They’ve only had me for between six and eight weeks which isn’t a lot of time.

“I feel like I’m going to come on bigger, stronger and better. This is my natural weight at Super-Middle. I’ve grown into it and it’s time to takeover. I’m here for a fight and I’m here to takeover and win. I’m young and I’ve got self-belief. I feel like I’m good enough.”

Kash Farooq won a 10-round unanimous decision over Angel Aviles in a bantamweight contest.

Farooq, 117 lbs of Glasgow, SCO won by scores of 100-90, 100-91 and 99-91 and is now 14-1. Aviles, 120 lbs of Altamirano, MX is 20-6-1.

“First round I ended up slipping on my ass,” Cullen told Matchroom afterwards. “If people thought it was a knockdown, it wasn’t. I had to work and push it. Every time I went back to the corner Michael and Dave said, ‘look, you need to get stuck in here and dig deep’. That’s what I feel like I did to win the fight. 

“That’s the first time I’d ever fought a southpaw. I was getting caught with stupid shots for the first couple of rounds. It was time to tuck up and dig deep. I feel like I was really coming on after the fourth round. I still feel like it was a big step up for him.

“I take my hat off to him for taking the fight. We were supposed to be fighting different people tonight. We’re young and we’ll fight anybody, there’s no reason not to. There’s a lot more for me to work on. They’ve only had me for between six and eight weeks which isn’t a lot of time.

“I feel like I’m going to come on bigger, stronger and better. This is my natural weight at Super-Middle. I’ve grown into it and it’s time to takeover. I’m here for a fight and I’m here to takeover and win. I’m young and I’ve got self-belief. I feel like I’m good enough.”

Katharina Thanderz says she has seen weaknesses in Terri Harper’s game that she will exploit when they clash for the WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday November 14, live on Sky Sports and DAZN. 

Unbeaten in thirteen professional contests, the former European and WBC International Champion got her first taste of World Title action last time out in November 2019 when she battled past Danila Ramos to claim the interim WBC Super-Featherweight crown.

Thanderz aims to follow in the footsteps of compatriot Cecilia Brækhus, the former long-reigning Undisputed 147lbs champion, who is considered one of the greatest female boxers of all time, and the 32-year-old plans on kicking off her road to Undisputed by dethroning rising star Harper in London. 

“This is my moment, my fight, the night my whole career has lined up for,” said Thanderz. “To fight against such a competitor for a World Title unification, it’s the fight every fighter dreams of!

“My last fight was a hard one where I had to bite down on the gum shield, but this fight will be an even greater test. I came through in my last fight and had my hand raised, I’m confident that will happen again against Terri.

“After that fight, I called for Terri Harper, I’ve been studying her for a long time but I know she will have been studying for me. I’ve seen weaknesses in her game that I have been working on in training, I’ve put in extra hours to work on a specific game plan and now I just can’t wait to get in there with Terri and put into practice what we’ve worked on. 

“Everything for this fight has been right. My training camp, my preparation could not have gone better. From diet and nutrition, physical training, sparring – my team has left no stone unturned; I am determined not to waste this opportunity. “We will entertain in this fight, we are two fighters that love to fight and have trained hard and prepared well. I can’t wait.”

Women’s boxing has never been in a stronger position, with World Title fights regularly featuring on some of the biggest shows around the globe, and Thanderz is pleased to be sharing a card with Ireland’s Undisputed Lightweight queen Katie Taylor, who has been instrumental in building the sport in recent years. 

“This card is a great one to be a part of. What is happening for sport here is amazing, it shows the evolution of the sport of boxing and coming away from this fight night with the World Title around my waist will make it the biggest and most special night in my career.

“Fighting this year is important. After everything that has happened with the pandemic, we’ve seen how much we need sport, the fans need it, the fighters, sports stars we all need it. Something to deliver excitement, passion and something that gives fans a reason to cheer and shout!”

Harper vs. Thanderz is part of an historical night of women’s World Title action that sees Irish star KatieTaylor (16-0, 6 KOs) put her Lightweight World Titles on the line once more against Mandatory Challenger MiriamGutierrez (13-0, 5 KOs), Rachel Ball (6-1) faces Jorgelina Guanini (9-1-2, 1 KO) for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title, big-punching John Docherty (9-0, 7 KOs) steps up against Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (18-2-1, 9 KOs), Liverpool Light-Heavyweight Thomas Whittaker-Hart (4-0, 2 KOs) looks to go 5-0 against Bradford’s Jermaine Springer (7-1, 1 KO)and Glasgow Bantamweight talent Kash Farooq (13-1, 6 KOs)makes his Matchroom debut against Angel Aviles (20-5-1, 6 KOs).

Terri Harper says she has made a number of improvements following her thrilling split decision draw with Liverpool’s Natasha Jonas at the top of the bill on Fight Camp Week 2 back in August.

Harper retained her WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight World Titles after ten rounds of all out action in Essex, but the Denaby star was left disappointed with her performance.

‘Belter’ (10-0-1, 5 KOs) puts her titles on the line against WBC Mandatory Challenger Katharina Thanderz (13-0, 2 KOs) at The SSE Arena, Wembley on Saturday November 14, live on Sky Sports and DAZN. 

The 24-year-old is open to a rematch with former Team GB standout Jonas but insists that all of her attention is on the job at hand against undefeated Spanish-Norwegian Thanderz next week. 

“I just fight who I’m told to fight,” said Harper. “Thanderz was called as mandatory so that’s it. I’ve had my eye on her a good few months, maybe a year as a potential opponent so it’s not like she’s just popped out of nowhere. 

“I learnt a lot after my last fight in many ways and I do want that rematch with Tasha down the line and also unifications, but I have a proven and deserving mandatory challenger to contend with first before we even look at those options – this is a proper fight and one I’m not overlooking.

“Previously I used to take it to heart when people called me out, but it shows I’m doing something right and have something they all want – the green and gold belt, but it’s one fight at a time. 

“We’ve made changes from the last camp, including bringing a new S&C coach onboard. It’s really opened my eyes to a few areas I was perhaps missing before, the improvements we’ve made since the summer are already starting to show.

“You’ll see my boxing skills shine through, I’ll set the pace, be disciplined in there and retain my titles.”

Harper vs. Thanderz is part of an historical night of women’s World Title action that sees Irish star KatieTaylor (16-0, 6 KOs) put her Lightweight World Titles on the line once more against Mandatory Challenger MiriamGutierrez (13-0, 5 KOs), Rachel Ball (6-1) faces Jorgelina Guanini (9-1-2, 1 KO) for the vacant WBA Bantamweight World Title, big-punching John Docherty (9-0, 7 KOs) steps up against Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (18-2-1, 9 KOs) and Liverpool Light-Heavyweight Thomas Whittaker-Hart (4-0, 2 KOs) looks to go 5-0 against Bradford’s Jermaine Springer (7-1, 1 KO).

Katharina Thanderz (13-0, 2 KOs) will challenge Britain’s Terri Harper (10-0-1, 5 KOs) for the WBC and IBO World Super Featherweight titles on November 14th.

Norwegian Thanderz, who boasts an unbeaten professional record, became mandatory in November 2019 after claiming the interim WBC World Super Featherweight title with a points decision over Danila Ramos of Brazil.

Current champion Terri Harper caught the eye last time out, a pulsating 10-round split draw with Natasha Jonas saw the Doncaster fighter retain the titles that will now be on the line in the clash with Thanderz.

While respecting the potential in Harper, Thanderz believes she has the tools to perform on the night.

“It’s an amazing feeling to know that I’m finally fighting for the world title 

I’ve been waiting such a long time for this moment, and I just know I’ll give my everything to win the title.

“Harper is a young and talented fighter. I think she’s a very hard working girl. She’s fast, she has a good technique, she has stamina, and she’s a very good fighter. It will be a pleasure to share the ring with her. 

“I am confident I can beat her. I have a very good feeling, and I’m working very hard in my camp to be the best version of myself. I know it will be very difficult , especially because of the circumstances of the fight, but I’m prepared to surprise and shock everyone when I get the win.”

Fighting for the first time on British soil, Thanderz is positive and upbeat on her chances.

“I feel very good about fighting in the UK. I’ve never fought in England, so I can’t wait to have the experience of fighting in a complete new country with so many boxing fans.” 

At 13-0 and 10-0-1 respectively, an unbeaten showdown between Thanderz and Harper is a mouthwatering prospect with the winner walking away with unified world champion status.

“This is the most excited I’ve been for a fight, I feel like I’ve got a lot to prove,” said Harper. “We’ve had the opportunity in this camp to work on lots of new things, having a strength and conditioning coach join the team. I want to go out and put the wrongs right.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland backed his fighter to come away with the win, and believes it is the perfect time to introduce Thanderz to the British scene.

“Katharina brings that Viking power and warrior spirit, and it’s a good time for her to come up against elite opposition. She’s undefeated, the interim belt holder and following the trail set by Cecilia Brækhus in bringing a world title back to Norway.

She’s said herself she’s going for greatness and you can see it in the way she operates, we can’t wait!”Eddie Hearn added “This is an historic moment. A huge night of boxing that will be headlined by not one but three women’s World Title fights. Katie Taylor has spun the game on its head since she turned pro and has paved the way for so many great female fighters.”

Norway’s Katharina Thanderz (13-0, 2 KOs) will get the opportunity to realise her lifetime dream of becoming a unified World Champion after the WBC ordered her to face the current WBC and IBO Super Featherweight title holder, Terri Harper (10-0-1, 5 KOs).

Thanderz, who hails from Oslo, was most recently in action in November 2019 when she headlined at the Ekeberg Hall against tough Brazilian Danila Ramos. Following an entertaining contest over ten brutal rounds, Thanderz won via split decision and became the WBC Interim Super Featherweight World Champion and the mandatory challenger for the title.

Thanderz has been eyeing a showdown against England’s Harper since the 23-year-olds unanimous decision victory over Eva Wahlstrom in February, when the heavy handed Harper dropped Wahlstrom on the way to a unanimous decision victory that saw the Doncaster native become the new WBC World Champion. 

With the WBC enforcing Thanderz’ mandatory position at their recent 58th annual convention, the Norwegian is delighted to finally get her shot against Harper.

“I feel that I can finally prove to everyone that taking that step was worth it, and that sometimes patience, endurance and hard work are the key to succeed,” said Thanderz. “It’s for sure one of the biggest dreams that I’ve had, and I feel more than prepared.

“I know it will be a tough fight. We’re on a certain level now that nothing is really easy. We’re both very good fighters, each of us have our own qualities and both of us will be willing to do everything to win. It will be a very competitive and physical fight from the start to the end. 

“Nothing would make me happier than becoming Norway’s next World Champion,” continued the 32-year-old from Oslo. “It will be a great opportunity to make my country proud, to represent Norway in the ring, and show the world some real Viking power!”

Following Cecilia Brækhus’ (36-1, 9 KOs) upset defeat against Jessica McCaskill (9-2, 3 KOs) in August, Thanderz hopes to replicate her fellow Norwegian’s success and make her country proud.

“She is and has been a great champion, and she deserves all the credit in the world for being a role model in women’s boxing,” said Thanderz. “I think it’s great that Norway has two current professional female boxers that have done and are doing so well within the sport.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland believes Thanderz can follow in the footsteps of the ‘First Lady’ by becoming a Norwegian boxing great, and is encouraging the fans to show their support for Thanderz.

“I am delighted that the WBC have ordered the fight and we are confident that Katharina will be victorious,” said Sauerland. “This is a huge opportunity for Norway to have another unified World Champion so we hope everyone gets behind Katharina as she goes for greatness!”

Team Sauerland have entered negotiations with Matchroom Boxing for the fight with further news released shortly. 

Katharina Thanderz says she wants to fight Terri Harper next having witnessed the British boxer dethrone Eva Wahlstrom for the WBC Female World Super Featherweight title on Saturday in Sheffield, England.

Thanderz, who holds the interim WBC World title, was ringside to watch Harper defeat Wahlstrom, with whom she sparred in the build up to this fight, and is now looking forward to her own showdown with the WBC and IBO champion.

“It was amazing to sit ringside to watch Eva Wahlstrom and Terri Harper fight,” said Thanderz, who outpointed Danila Ramos in Oslo in November to claim the interim World title and earn her shot at the winner of Harper and Wahlstrom.

“It was a very good technical fight. They both had their moments, and trying to give a neutral opinion, I would say I had Eva up on my scorecard until round 7. Then she went down, which didn’t look like a normal knockdown, she seemed to lose her balance, and Harper did better in the second half of the fight, which is why I guess she finally got the win. However it was a very close fight.

“I thought Harper did a good job, as did Wahlstrom, but I wouldn’t say ‘impressed’ is the right word to describe what I thought of her performance. She is a good boxer though, with the potential to get even better with all the hard work she puts in, and for that I do respect and admire her.

“Absolutely, I want to fight Harper next, and as interim WBC Champion, I hope and expect to fight her next. A fight between me and Harper would be completely different to the fight between Harper and Wahlstrom. Physically, I’d say I’m more similar to Harper, and her reach and length wouldn’t be a problem for me. I won’t give away our game plan, but what I can say is it would be a great fight, and I am convinced it would end with my arm being raised.”

Having experienced the atmosphere in Sheffield, Thanderz says she would have no problem fighting Harper at home and has welcomed the challenge.

“It’s not in my hands to decide where to fight. Of course, home advantage can be an important factor, but for me it’s more important that the fight takes place. I’m interested in fighting the best, and sometimes you need to be brave and go out to get it. I have always admired boxers who have done that.

“I observed the hostile reception that the fans in Sheffield gave Eva Wahlstrom when she entered the ring, so I would be prepared for exactly the same treatment, and it would probably make me stronger.”

Katharina Thanderz (13-0, 2 KOs) becomes Norway’s latest World Champion following a bloody battle with Danila Ramos (8-2, 1 KO) last night in Oslo to claim the WBC Interim Female World Super Featherweight title.

In a fast paced and exciting affair, Thanderz had to withstand some early pressure from the Brazilian Ramos, who started strongly, but was able to find her rhythm and land the more decisive shots as the fight progressed

In a dramatic final round, blood poured down Thanderz’s face following a clash of heads, which saw Ramos deducted a point by the referee, and after the final bell she was awarded a deserved split decision win (97-93, 96-93 and 93-95).

Thanderz follows in the footsteps of current Unified Welterweight Champion Cecilia Brækhus and former WBO Cruiserweight World Champion Magne Havnaa as Norway’s only ever World Champions. 

“I am very happy to get the victory,” said Thanderz. “It was a war from the start to the finish. I couldn’t really see anything in the last round but I knew I had to give it my all. To win a World title feels completely indescribable!”

“Norway has a new World Champion and a new boxing superstar,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland. “Katharina took her chance and won her first World title, but it doesn’t stop here. There are a lot of big fights coming for her!”

Kai Robin Havnaa (16-0, 13 KOs), the son of former WBO World Champion Magne Havnaa, had to overcome a tough test to retain his undefeated record with a win over Mariano Angel Gudino (13-4, 8 KOs). The Argentinian threw everything at Havnaa, but was unable to derail the fast rising Norwegian star, who won via split decision in a valuable learning fight.

“It’s been a hell of a week after the last minute change of opponent,” said Havnaa, who was originally scheduled to face American Al Sands. “But that’s not an excuse because these things can happen in boxing. I learned a lot from this fight. Gudino was a tough opponent and it feels great to get the win!”

“Kai wanted a real test, and he got it,” said Sauerland. “Not many fighters would have accepted such a hard fight on short notice. He showed a lot of heart and courage in there tonight. I don’t believe it was his best performance but he got the win and we move forward. There is still a lot more to come from Kai.”

An action packed undercard at Oslo’s historic Ekeberghallen saw cruiserweight Kevin Melhus (7-0, 3 KOs) continue his unbeaten run with a unanimous points win over Ossie Jervier (6-11, 5 KOs), Alexander Hagen (14-2-1, 6 KOs) outpoint Emmanuel Feuzeu (10-11-2, 4 KOs), Bernard Torres (10-0, 4 KOs) break double figures with his tenth pro win coming by unanimous decision against Christian Flores Lopez (11-6-2, 9 KOs) and Kent Erik Baadstad (6-1, 4 KOs) score a second-round TKO win over Istvan Kun (7-15-2, 4 KOs).

Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) will have star support from Argentinian boxing legend Sergio Martinez when she meets Danila Ramos (8-1, 1 KO) for the interim WBC World Super Featherweight title on November 16th in Oslo.

The former two-weight World Champion will be ringside as Thanderz looks to capture her first World title in front of her home fans at the Ekeberghallen.

“It means a lot to me that Sergio will be there,” says Thanderz. “He always promised that he would be there when I fought for my first World title and he hasn’t forgotten. I couldn’t believe it when he texted me a picture of his flights to show he was coming. I was very happy and got very emotional.”

Before signing for Team Sauerland, Thanderz fought under Martinez’s Maravillabox promotional banner, and the 31 year-old admits the former WBC and WBO champion has been a influential figure in her boxing career.

“He is a big inspiration for me. Not only because of his success as a boxer but also because of his whole life story, which is really special and unique,” she says. “He is the perfect example of the fact that you can achieve whatever you want in life with hard work and self-belief, even when starting from the very bottom.

“He started boxing when he was 20 years old and went all the way to the top winning World title fights more than 10 times. He grew up in a very poor family, and overcame a lot of adversity in life. It’s impossible not to get inspired with his story. He’s also an excellent human being, and so humble. I really appreciate and value his friendship.

“He always gives me a lot of advice, and takes an interest in watching my sparring videos to tell me his point of view. He never talks about specific techniques, but helps me a lot with the mental part of boxing, mental strategies, and the tactical part, which he thinks is the most important part of the game. He’s extremely intelligent, and understanding his philosophy helps me a lot.”

“In her most important fight, it’s a pleasure for me to be able to be there with Katharina to witness her World coronation,” says Martinez. “For me it is a tremendous honour to know her and to have been able to work with her. The most beautiful thing about Katharina, apart from being an excellent athlete, is her quality as a person. She’s a fantastic woman. I love and respect her a lot. I will be there supporting her. She really deserves that.”

Katharina Thanderz headlines a huge show at the historic Ekeberghallen as she faces Danila Ramos for the interim WBC Female World Super Featherweight crown, while Kai Robin Havnaa looks to bolster his World title claim in a crunch cruiserweight clash with Mariano Angel Gudino, and top talents Kevin Melhus, Alexander Hagen, Bernard Torres and Kent Erik Baadstad complete an action-packed card in the Norwegian capital.

Tickets are available online via www.ticketmaster.no. All the action will be available to watch live across Viasat 4, Viasport + and Viaplay in Norway.

Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) and Danila Ramos (8-1, 1 KO) both made weight today ahead of their interim WBC Female World Super Featherweight title fight tomorrow night at the Ekeberghallen in Oslo, Norway.

Thanderz gets her first taste of World title action as she tops an action-packed card at the historic Oslo venue that also features Norway’s number one male boxer Kai Robin Havnaa (15-0, 13 KOs) in a crunch cruiserweight clash against Argentina’s Mariano Angel Gudino (13-3, 8 KOs).

WBC Interim World Super Featherweight Championship:
Katharina Thanderz: 58.6kg
Danila Ramos: 58.1kg

Cruiserweight – 10 Rounds:
Kai Robin Havnaa: 90.5kg
Mariano Angel Gudino: 90.7kg

Cruiserweight – 6 Rounds:
Kevin Melhus: 89.7kg
Ossie Jervier: 89.9kg

Light Heavyweight – 8 Rounds: 
Alexander Hagen: 79.3kg
Emmanuel Feuzeu: 80.7kg

Super Featherweight – 8 Rounds:
Bernard Torres: 58.3kg
Christian Lopez Florez: 58.5kg

Cruiserweight – 6 Rounds:
Kent Erik Baadstad: 91.7kg
Istvan Kun: 90.6kg

Tickets are available online via www.ticketmaster.no. All the action will be available to watch live across Viasat 4, Viasport + and Viaplay in Norway.

Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) came face-to-face with her opponent Danila Ramos (8-1, 1 KO) for the first time at a press conference today in Oslo ahead of their interim WBC World Super Featherweight title fight on Saturday night.

Thanderz, a former European and WBC International Champion, headlines a stacked card at the Ekeberghallen as she challenges for her first World title, while Norway’s number one male boxer Kai Robin Havnaa (15-0, 3 KOs) takes on Mariano Angel Gudino (13-3, 8 KOs) in a crunch cruiserweight clash.

“I feel great. I can’t wait until Saturday,” said Thanderz. “I’ve had a great camp with really hard training. Some days I was completely exhausted but that’s what you have to do to win a fight like this. I have lots of friends and family coming on Saturday so I’m really happy about that. I’m not sure what’s going to happen but I know that I’m going to give it all. This is a big chance for me to realize my dream and win my first World title.”

“I’m very happy to be here,” said Ramos. “Norway is beautiful and it’s the first time I’ve ever seen snow. I feel like I’m already the champ. I didn’t take my belt home to Brazil last time, but there is no way that’s happening again. I’m certain I will win. Come to the fight or watch on TV, I will put in a sensational performance and you will see a new champion on Saturday!”

“It’s a tough fight for both girls and both fighters are here to win,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland.  “It’s a massive night for Norway. Boxing is growing sport over here. It’s been illegal for many years and there have been lots of restrictions, so I’m just happy to put on this great fight night. If Katharina wins then I think there will be a new Norwegian national hero and there will be some very big fights to be made, people like: Terri Harper, Eva Wahlstrom and other big names.”

“I’m happy to be here in Norway,” said Gudino, who comes in as a late replacement for Al Sands. “Havnaa is in trouble. He will see what it is like to fight a real warrior. I’ve come here to fight and I’ve come here to win. I’ve not come here for a holiday. I give the same importance to every fight I have. It doesn’t matter where it is or who it is against. I know Havnaa is a good fighter. He is a big opponent for me, but I’m ready for a war!”

“I can’t wait to get into the ring on Saturday night,” said Havnaa. “I’ve had a late change of opponent before so I’m used to this and I’m not going to let it affect me. My opponent looks fit and strong. I know he is coming here to fight and I will be prepared to face my best opponent yet. He’s says that he’s going to make it war so I’m expecting a war. Let’s go to war!”

“Kai’s had a late replacement. I gave him a list of three fighters and he’s picked the hardest one,” says Sauerland. “I really like his attitude and fingers crossed it doesn’t backfire. I expect a very good, tough fight. It’s going to be a great crowd and we are building something special here in Norway.

“The name Havnaa is synonymous with boxing in Norway. It’s a huge name here. His dad was a World Champion and now Kai is following in his footsteps and emulating his success. He’s the biggest star in boxing in Norway at the moment. He’s taking over and now he needs to produce the goods in the ring.”

Katharina Thanderz headlines a huge show at the historic Ekeberghallen as she faces Danila Ramos for the interim WBC Female World Super Featherweight crown, while Kai Robin Havnaa looks to bolster his World title claim in a crunch cruiserweight clash with Mariano Angel Gudino, and top talents Kevin Melhus, Alexander Hagen, Bernard Torres and Kent Erik Baadstad complete an action-packed card in the Norwegian capital.

Tickets are available online via www.ticketmaster.no. All the action will be available to watch live across Viasat 4, Viasport + and Viaplay in Norway.

Katharina Thanderz (12-0, 2 KOs) has landed a dream World title fight on November 16 as she tops an action-packed event at the Ekeberghallen in Oslo.

Having signed promotional terms with Team Sauerland, Thanderz aims to follow in the footsteps of compatriot Cecilia Brækhus, the current Unified 147lbs champion, who is considered one of the greatest female boxers of all time.

Unbeaten in twelve professional contests, the former European and WBC International Champion will get her first taste of World title action against Danila Ramos (8-1, 1 KO) for the interim WBC World Super Featherweight crown.

Thanderz’s World title tilt comes at the iconic Oslo venue that alongside world-renowned recording artists such as David Bowie and ABBA, has played host to two World title fights prior to Norway’s 33-year ban on professional boxing.

Svein Erik Paulsen challenged Alfredo Escalera for the WBC World Super Featherweight title on December 12, 1975, while Harald Skog fought Victor Galindez for the WBA World Light Heavyweight title on March 28, 1976.

“Fighting for my first World title is a dream come true. This is exactly what I’ve visualised in every training session since I started boxing,” says Thanderz. “To get this opportunity in Oslo, in the city I was born, in front of all my family and friends is a huge motivation for me, and I will do everything I can to win.

“Ramos is a legitimate opponent who isn’t afraid of getting into a fight. She has an aggressive, come forward style so I expect a hard battle. She has already fought for the belt, where she lost a close decision, so I know she will be eager to win the title this time. She’s Brazilian, but she lives and trains in Argentina, which is a country with a very high level of female fighters.

“I’m hungry, motivated and excited. I’m ready to put in the hard work that is needed for a fight at this level. People will see what I’m made of. They will see a fighter without fear and willing to do whatever it takes to give Norway a new World Champion. It will be a fight filled with a lot of war and action!”

Ramos, the Buenos Aires-based Brazilian, is equally confident of claiming World honours having found herself on the wrong end of a points decision against Elhem Mekhaled for the same WBC strap earlier this year.

The 34-year-old, known as ‘A Guerreira’ (The Warrior), is back to winning ways following a unanimous verdict against Lilian Dolores Silva, and has outlined her plan to upset the home fighter and bring the belt back to Argentina.

“I am very confident I can win this fight,” says Ramos. “Katharina is a good, offensive fighter. I really like her style, but I think it’s ideal for me. I will be preparing for the fight in Buenos Aires, which has a very high level for professional boxing, and will be sparring with World Champions. I am happy to get the chance to fight for the WBC title again, and this time it won’t escape me. I will give everything to make sure the belt comes back to Argentina with me.”

Promoter Nisse Sauerland says he is delighted to secure Thanderz a World title shot and is excited to bring championship boxing back to the Ekeberghallen.

“This is a great opportunity for Katharina to claim her first World title,” says Sauerland. “We were determined to deliver Katharina a World title fight and we’re delighted she’ll get her chance against Danila Ramos for the WBC belt.

“The Ekeberghallen has a great history for boxing in Norway and we look forward to continuing that tradition on November 16. Alongside Katharina’s World title challenge, we will be working with Norway Box Promotion to deliver a full undercard showcasing the very best of Norwegian boxing.”

“We really appreciate the confidence Team Sauerland has shown in us. It’s a great honour to be able to kick start our new promotion company with an event of this magnitude. I really hope the people of Oslo will turn up and support our great group of fighters on November 16. It will be an exhilarating action packed event you can’t miss,” says Atle Walgren, for Norway Box Promotion.

All the action from the Ekeberghallen including Thanderz’s World title fight will be shown live on Viasat 4 in Norway. Christian Ramberg, Programme Manager Sports for NENT Group, says: “Katharina is a fascinating person and a fantastic fighter. I remember seeing her in action for the first time and thinking she is something special. I am proud to bring her home to Oslo for a world title fight in an historic venue. I cannot wait for the fight to start.”

Tickets for ‘Capital Showdown’ featuring the WBC World Super Featherweight title clash between Katharina Thanderz and Danila Ramos will go on general sale tomorrow, Thursday, October 3, at 12.00 (CEST) via www.ticketmaster.no.

Katharina Thanderz (11-0, 2 KOs) has her sights set on a World title challenge as she looks to claim her twelfth professional victory against Monica Gentili (6-10, 1 KO) on Saturday at the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle in Ludwigshafen, Germany.

Thanderz returns to the ring following an impressive points win over Rachel Ball in Arendal in March, and will be fighting for the first time since signing a long-term contract with European powerhouse promoter Team Sauerland.

“I believe I’m ready for a World title challenge,” said Thanderz ahead of her crunch clash with the tough Italian. “I have been working with that goal in my mind for many years. I’ve put in the hard work every single day to be at my best, and I definitely think I have what it takes to become a World Champion.

“Going into this fight, it gives me a lot of extra motivation knowing that a World title fight is so close. I mean, I love boxing, and I always work with a lot of passion and give my all in every training session, but it definitely gives me an extra push to know that I’m so close to achieving my goal.”

To achieve her goal, Thanderz must first dethrone one of the reigning 130lb rulers, and has WBC titleholder Eva Wahlstrom at the top of her wish list.

“Out of all the champions in my weight division, I would love to meet Eva Wahlstrom,” said Thanderz. “She’s from Finland and I’m from Norway, and it would be a great fight that I’m sure the Scandinavian public would love.

“I really admire her as a boxer. She has a very nice boxing style to watch, and is very technical and fast. She might not be the strongest or hardest hitting boxer, but she’s a hard worker, and I have huge respect for that. I think she has the whole package and is a good role model for other female boxers.

“With that said, I would be willing to fight any of the World Champions. My ambition is to meet the best female boxers in the world, and I wouldn’t have a problem going up in weight in the future either, but for now, all my focus is on beating Monica Gentili because she is not a fighter you can overlook.

“My preparations have gone well. I’ve been training twice a day in extreme heat so I’m in great condition and I’m anxious to step into the ring again.”

Thanderz faces Gentili on the undercard of Vincent Feigenbutz’s IBO International Super Middleweight title showdown with Cesar Nunez, which also features rising Norwegian star Hadi Srour against Russia’s Evgenii Vazem.

All the action from the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle is available to watch live on Viasport + and Viaplay in Norway, and Sport1 in Germany. Tickets are available online via www.eventim.de or by calling +49 01806-570440

Katharina Thanderz (11-0, 2 KOs) and Hadi Srour (3-0, 2 KOs) return to action on August 17 on the undercard of Vincent Feigenbutz’s super middleweight clash with Cesar Nunez at the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle in Ludwigshafen, Germany.

The rising Norwegian stars will be fighting for the first time since signing promotional contracts with Team Sauerland earlier this year following impressive performances at the SØR Amfi in Arendal on March 3.

Thanderz, the former European and WBC International Champion, claimed a majority decision win over the previously undefeated Rachel Ball in Arendal. Overcoming a broken hand in the fourth-round to secure her eleventh victory.

“I felt really good in that fight,” reflects Thanderz. “I felt like I was in control of the fight, and if it wasn’t for the fact that I broke my strongest hand in the middle round, I actually thought I could have finished the fight before the eight rounds.

“I had to have an operation on my hand after the fight. They had to introduce a titanium plate with six screws in order get the bone healed. The doctors said that this was the most secure method to get me back to the ring as fast as possible, and avoiding a possible new injury in the future.”

Now fully recovered, Thanderz is looking forward to getting back in the ring to test her skills against Monica Gentili (6-10, 1 KO), the tough Italian, who has previously gone the distance with current WBO Super Featherweight Champion Ewa Brodnicka and former WBC Lightweight Champion Delfine Persoon, and has shared the ring with current Undisputed Lightweight Champion Katie Taylor.

“I know that Monica Gentili is a brave fighter. She has met the best boxers in our weight division, and she’s not afraid to take challenges,” said Thanderz, ahead of their eight-round lightweight bout.

“She’s only lost once by KO and once by TKO, so she’s physically tough and strong. Her style is a bit different depending on who she meets, but in general I would say she’s the type of fighter who likes to come forward, and as I mentioned before, someone not afraid to take some punches. I’m expecting a hard fight, but I also feel confident in making a great performance against her.”

Srour returns to the professional realm having competed at the European Amateur Championships in Belarus in June, and will be hoping to follow up on his one sided points win over Zoltan Szabo at the SØR Amfi in March as he meets Evgenii Vazem (8-7, 3 KOs) in a six-round super lightweight contest.

“I was very pleased with my performance against Szabo,” says Srour. “It was a big step up for me, and still I dominated and he barely survived in the fourth. I know what I should do now to get the stoppage in my next fight.

“The only thing I have in my head is to put on a performance and show the people I am a man for the future. We are going to deliver the whole package. It is going to be entertainment and we are going for the KO, always.”

“Katharina and Hadi are two of the most exciting talents in Scandinavian boxing and will be great additions to an already action-packed show in Ludwigshafen,” said promoter Nisse Sauerland. “Katharina is closing in on a World title challenge and can move another step closer with a win over Gentili, while Hadi will want to entertain as he looks to build his name in the professional ranks.”

All the action from the Friedrich-Ebert-Halle is available to watch live on Viasport+ and Viaplay in Norway, and Sport1 in Germany. Tickets are available online via www.eventim.de or by calling +49 01806-570440.

Katharina Thanderz (11-0, 2 KOs) has penned a long-term promotional pact with Team Sauerland as the rising super featherweight star targets World glory.

The Oslo boxer, who lives and trains in Spain, has already established herself as one of the top prospects in the female 130lbs division having captured European honours with a unanimous points win over Maria Semertzoglou in October 2017.

She has since claimed victories over Valgerdur Gudstensdottir, for the WBC International Lightweight belt, Bojana Libiszewska, Tamara Marianela Nunez and Rachel Ball to bring her to the cusp of a World title challenge.

Having committed her future to Team Sauerland, Thanderz believes she now has the right team around her to realise her ambition of becoming World Champion.

“I feel privileged to have the opportunity to work with Europe’s leading boxing promoter,” she said. “I’m sure with their experience and network, combined with hard work from my team and myself, we can achieve many great things.

“There are several reasons why I chose to sign with Team Sauerland. First is my desire to box in Norway, where I am from, as even though I live and train in Spain, nothing makes me happier than performing in my home country.

“Secondly, I like the fact that Sauerland has ample experience with female boxing. I’ve seen how they’ve worked with other female boxers and how they’ve lifted their careers. It’s good to see a promoter that’s willing to include female boxers at the same level as male fighters, and I can see they take pride in it.

“One thing is for sure, with Team Sauerland at my back, the great team I have in Spain that work every day to make me a better boxer, and my daily hard work, stubbornness and commitment, I will become World Champion!”

Echoing these sentiments is Thanderz’s new promoter Nisse Sauerland, who believes his latest signing can become a future star of female boxing.

“We’re delighted to welcome Katharina to the team,” says Sauerland. “She is an exceptional talent in a very exciting division and it will not be long before she is challenging for big titles. Katharina is the future of female boxing in Norway, and with our guidance, she can become a global super star.”

Christian Ramberg, Programme Manager Sport for Nent Group, who will broadcast Thanderz’s fights in Norway, said: “Katharina has already proven herself and accomplished a lot in her professional career. We can’t wait to follow every step on her journey to become a World Champion. She has the potential to go all the way. Katharina is also special outside the ring. I can’t think of a better role model for the sport of boxing.”

Rachel Ball (4-0) is relishing the opportunity to put her unbeaten record on the line against former European and WBC International Champion Katharina Thanderz (10-0, 2 KOs) as they provide chief support for Kai Robin Havnaa’s IBO International title fight with Rad Rashid on March 2 in Arendal.

Ball is a former three-time world kickboxing champion, who having switched disciplines is undefeated in her four professional contests. Her last bout, a bloody battle with Eftychia Kathopouli, was named ‘Fight Of Year’ by the British Boxing Board of Control Midlands Area, and the 27 year-old is promising another ‘war’ as she travels the North Sea to take on the undefeated Thanderz.

“I’m coming to Norway to win and that’s the only outcome I envision in my mind. If I thought any differently, I wouldn’t bother stepping in the ring,” says Ball. “I don’t make predictions on points, stoppages or TKOs, but what I do predict is an excellent showcase for women’s boxing, a brilliant fight, and a war too!

“I might look friendly but put me in a ring and I’m a different person. I’m an exciting fighter. There’s no other fighter out there who looks like me. I stand out in appearance and in the way I fight. This will be a fight you don’t want to miss!

“Thanderz has a good record. She’s fought for two titles, so she’s experienced in fighting over longer rounds. I’ve watched her fights. She’s a tough girl, and it’s going to be a great fight for women’s boxing and for the fans. Everyone at home is excited for me to fight someone as credible as Thanderz. This as a big opportunity for my career, and I’m excited to fight her.”

Having claimed multiple World titles as a kickboxer, Balls hopes to emulate this success as boxer, drawing on her past experience to fight her way to the top.

“For me, boxing was natural progression from my kickboxing career,” she says. “There wasn’t anything left for me to achieve in the sport, and I wanted a new challenge. I had two K1 fights after I won my last world title, I enjoyed it, but the plan was to go in to boxing, and the time was right when I turned pro in 2017.

“I maintain that kickboxers are tough, getting punched in the face is one thing but getting kicked in the face is another. It’s great being a multiple world champion. I’ve had a lot of title fights and gone a lot of rounds, which is great experience to bring into my boxing career, but with that said, I’m a completely different now from my kickboxing days, and from the fights I’ve had since.”

Kai Robin Havnaa tops the bill at the SØR Amfi in Arendal with a historic IBO International Cruiserweight title fight against Rad ‘Thunder’ Rashid.

Katharina Thanderz provides chief support with a super featherweight contest against Rachel Ball, Hadi Srour is back in the professional ring to meet Zoltan Szabo, and Kristiansand’s Jamshid Nazari takes on Ivica Gogosevic.

Tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.no or by calling (+47) 22 82 81 97.

Katharina Thanderz (10-0, 2 KOs) returns from injury to face Rachel Ball (4-0) as chief support for Kai Robin Havnaa’s cruiserweight showdown with Rad ‘Thunder’ Rashid on March 2 at the SØR Amfi in Arendal.

Thanderz was scheduled to defend her European Super Featherweight title against Elhem Mekhaled on December 22, but suffered a herniated cervical disc in sparring, forcing her to withdraw from the contest and vacate her title.

Now fully recorded, the undefeated former EBU and WBC International Champion plans to kick-start the year with a victory over the unbeaten Brit Rachel Ball before targeting more titles in 2019.

“I’m really looking forward to fighting in Arendal on March 2. It has been several months since I was last in the ring, and I feel a huge motivation to be back again. The fact that I will be boxing in the country I was born makes it even more exciting,” says Thanderz, who currently resides Alicante, Spain.

“I was injured during a sparring session when preparing to defend my EBU title, and it was quite complicated for a while. I had to stop training completely and I was unable to spar, but I’m completely healed now. I started sparring again two weeks ago, and I feel absolutely great.

“I will be training in Spain for this fight, doing my boxing training at the Vista Gym in La Nucia with my boxing coach Jesus Labradador, and my physical exercises with Christian Marcet at Odin Athletes. We plan on bringing over two sparring partners to ensure I am one hundred percent ready for the fight. One of them is Nina Bradley from the UK, who I have trained with in the past.

“I think Rachel Ball seems like a tough fighter, and I am sure she will come well prepared to face me. She is also unbeaten at the moment, so I expect she will be hungry for victory. Nevertheless, I will be more prepared than ever, and I’m looking forward to ending the fight with 11-0 as my new record.

“My goal for the rest of the year is to have a active 2019 with several fights, get back my European Title, and then aim for some bigger belts!”

Kai Robin Havnaa returns to the SØR Amfi in Arendal on March 2 to headline his hometown arena in his toughest career test against Rad Rashid.

Katharina Thanderz provides chief support with an eight-round super featherweight clash against Rachel Ball, Hadi Srour meets Zoltan Szabo in a six-round super lightweight contest, while middleweight Anders Eggan faces Frane Radnic over six-rounds. More undercard fights to be announced shortly.

Tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.no or by calling (+47) 22 82 81 97.