(AUG 5) UK-born New Zealand
boxer Michelle Preston wins her second WBA regional title
against New Zealand-born Australian boxer Nicila Costello.
The five-time World Kickboxing
Champion, Michelle Preston, won her first WBA title in 2007 when
she became the first ever WBA PABA Bantamweight champion. 15
years later she wins her second WBA regional title with a win
against Nicila Costello for the WBA Oceania Super Flyweight
title.
Preston is now the second New Zealand female to win the title
after Gentiane Lupi became the first WBA Oceania champion in
2016. However, Preston is now the first female to win it in New
Zealand.
The first three rounds of the fight were very close between the
three girls, but it seems the judges leaned towards Costello for
her heavy hits, especially towards the body, and her aggressive
fighting style. From round four onwards it was all Preston
outboxing her opponent and using her reach advantage. Even
though Preston was constantly on the back foot, Preston was
landing cleanly and counterpunching.
Costello had the loudest fans in the room as it seems that half
the venue was filled with her supporters. Unfortunately, her
trainer was not able to fly over with her for the fight,
however, she had experienced trainer Grant Arkell cornering her
for this fight. Arkell is well known for training many great
boxers including Joseph Parker.
Preston is expected to fight
again in September on the next King in the Ring card against
Thailand boxer Phannaluk Kongsang. This was the original fight
that was scheduled, however, it was postponed due to visa
issues. It is expected that Preston will defend her newly won
title against Phannaluk Kongsang. Costello will more likely
fight in a rematch against Jasmine Parr, however, nothing has
been confirmed as of yet.
Both female boxers have made New Zealand proud, as well as the
UK and Australia. Costello might have lost the fight, however,
she still made history by becoming the first person from the
LGBT community to fight for the WBA Oceania title. Preston is
expected to receive a top 15 ranking in the WBA after winning
the Oceania title. But first, she will be celebrating her
daughter's birthday.
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