(FEB 3) WBAN received an opportunity to go one-on-one with Helen "Iron Lady" Joseph, who now lives in New Haven, Connecticut, USA. The Nigerian female boxing sensation has fought professionally since 2004, and has a boxing record of 15-3-2 (10KO). Now some may refer the "Iron Lady" to be more like a "Road Warrior" when you see where she has had to go to face her opposition in the ring since 2012.   She among other top female boxers were named the "Most Dangerous" female fighters! 

Helen, in February of 2017, there was a press release that was publicized in regard to you fighting Heather Hardy, on March 4, 2017. Why did that fight not take place...and why was the fight not rescheduled?

Helen:  At the time I had a Visa issue. Although I had it cleared up in a timely manner the promoter has moved on. Heather has said she will fight me but I guess her promoter has other plans for her.

When you accepted a fight in Queensland, Australia, with Shannon O'Connell who is from Queensland, did you have any apprehension going into Australia, fighting someone in their home ground?

Helen:  I’m alone here in the USA. I only have my management as my family. It didn’t matter to me where I was fighting her---I knew I would beat her.

What made you decide to move to the United States in 2017? Do you feel like you have made a more strategic move being in Connecticut vs. Nigeria?

Helen:  There are not that many opportunities in Nigeria. Yes, I felt moving here would be better because I would be more visible to the boxing community. But I guess from them seeing me they now avoid me.

What is this all about----you have had a tough time getting fights in 2018---you made challenges with little to no results-----having only one fight, that resorted in a draw? What do you think will make a difference in 2019?

Helen:   feel that my new management team will come together and make my dreams happen. Devonna has been so good to me. She goes above and beyond what a manager is supposed to do. And Now having Brian Cohen on board is the missing piece of the puzzle. His track record speaks for itself.

There is no doubt that you would like to become a world champion and/or be considered the best---what fighter(s) would you like to take it to that level for yourself? What's your "hit" list for 2019?

Helen:   NUMBER ONE on my hit list is Shelly Vincent. We live in the same city but she still avoids me like I’m invisible. She avoids my name like kids run from bees. I would also love to fight Amanda Serrano but I know that these two fights are not going to happen. A belt don’t make you a champion. Your personality to act like a champion does.  I would still like to fight Heather Hardy. Mariana Juarez. Fatuma Zarika as well.

I recently listened to a video segment where you had some strong feelings about wanting to fight Zarika Fatuma, what is that all about?

Helen:   Yes you are very right, why? Because Africa is very far from the U.S.A.  Many promoters don't want to spend much money, being boxer from far away countries.  Do I believe when I'm right here nothing will stop me from fighting those so-called Champions. Yes,  you are right, my strong feeling about. My thoughts is that she does not want to fight me.  BEing the African best, she needs to pass through me. 

What made you decide to get into boxing, and when did you begin training in the sport? Did you fight in the amateurs prior to turning pro?

Helen:  I decide to get into boxing because I love to fight. Yes I did fight some amateurs and never lost.  I started since 2003.

Out of your 20 fights as a pro, who do you think was your toughest opponent, thus far?

Helen:  Unathi Myekeni is a very strong boxer who never believe I can BEAT her---she's very tough.

If you had any guidance or advice to give to other females that would like to get into boxing, what would you tell them?

Helen:   I Would tell them I’m trying very hard. Do all the right things in the gym and the fight will be easy. Make sure you have good managers that know how to make things happen for you.

Are you now living in the United States alone and your family is still in Nigeria? Or did your family move with you to get closer with you to fulfill your dream of getting those top fights that you absolutely deserve?

Helen:  Yes. My family is in Nigeria.

Joseph just recently signed with "Team Empire", with boxing manager Brian Cohen and Devonne Canady, and they are determined that 2019 WILL be her year in the sport---Joseph, now living within the USA, and having many possible fight opportunities Joseph and her Team are saying "2019 IS the year" for this talented boxer!