LAS VEGAS - NV (April 29, 2025) A picture worth a thousand words....this is one of many things that keeps me covering the sport in WBAN and doing the International Women's Boxing Hall of Fame.

Pioneer Trailblazers female boxers not having opportunities as fighters as we see our modern female boxers receive for opportunities....at our April 4-5, 2025 International Women's Boxing Hall of Fame event, we presented trailblazer female boxers who fought from 2000 or earlier, with a WBAN Mini belt. Many of the earlier female boxers in the sport had little or no opportunity to fight for a title or belt. 

At Women's Boxing Archive Network (WBAN) and through events like the International Women's Boxing Hall of Fame (IWBHF), we are dedicated to shedding light on these "never forgotten" pioneers. Their journeys reflect tenacity, resilience, and the fight for recognition in a sport that has often overlooked them.

Photo Credit:  Pat Pineda (right)  Margaret McGregor (left)

One of the most meaningful initiatives we've undertaken is the presentation of the WBAN Mini Belt—a symbol of acknowledgment for those trailblazers who blazed paths for future generations but were often sidelined during their careers. These pioneers faced numerous challenges, including limited opportunities for fights and championships. As we honor our eight WBAN Mini-Belt holders, it’s important to reflect on their significant contributions and the barriers they transcended.

Photo credit:  Sheree Johnson [Dar Buckskin/left Pat Pineda/center/
Jamie Johnson/right

Among the History-first recipients, we celebrated Dar Buckskin, Pat Pineda, and Jamie Johnson—our three trailblazers recognized in 2023.

Photo Credit of photos:  Sheree Johnson

The IWBHF Event in 2025 proved to be a historic moment for women's boxing. During this gathering, five trailblazers were honored with the WBAN Mini Belt: Margaret McGregor, Yvonne Barkley, Jill Matthews, Nora Daigle, and Tracy Byrd. These women represent the grit and determination of a generation of fighters who persevered despite limited exposure and scant opportunities to showcase their talent.

Photo credit:  Pat Pineda

The WBAN Mini Belt serves as a testament to their struggles and triumphs, ensuring that their contributions are remembered and revered. A picture may indeed be worth a thousand words, but the stories behind those images are even richer. 

Congratulations to all our trailblazer female boxers; your legacy is not only a part of history but also a beacon of hope for future athletes.

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