(OCT 29) After the announcement of her induction into the International Women's Boxing Hall of Fame it was my privilege to interview Raja Amasheh. Some people are born champions and some work hard for it. Raja, a true champion; embodies both. She's someone who got into and stayed in the sport for all the right reasons. Here she is, humble and yet strong and determined, bequeathing her wisdom to future generations of not only women, but all athletes. Jill Diamond, WBC co-Chair Women's Championship Division.

Jill:   You were born a fighter. Why?

Raja:  I was born a fighter because my life has always been about perseverance and resilience. As the third of five children in a modest family from Jordan, I learned early on what it means to grow with Down-to-earth roots. When my family moved to Germany while I was still a baby, Berlin became the city I grew up in—a vibrant and inspiring place, but also one where I had to navigate complex realities.

As a German with an immigrant background, and a brown woman, the challenges I faced were constant and deeply formative. Whether it was overcoming stereotypes, pushing through barriers, or proving my worth in the face of struggles, I have always needed to stand tall and move forward. Fighting became second nature to me—not out of bitterness but out of necessity and, ultimately, strength.

Perhaps that’s why stepping into the boxing ring seemed so natural. My entire life has been about embracing challenges, learning from every obstacle, and turning adversity into opportunity. So, when I laced up my gloves, I was not just fighting an opponent—I’m honoring every struggle, every lesson, and every triumph that led me here.

Jill:  Why did you actually get into the ring

Raja: I fell in love with martial arts after my very first kickboxing session. The level of body control, timing, and precision required was unlike anything I had ever experienced. While academics had always come naturally to me, martial arts posed the ultimate challenge—one that demanded discipline, resilience, and constant self-improvement.

When I transitioned to boxing, I discovered my true passion. It felt like finding a piece of myself I didn’t know was missing. I became determined—some might even say stubborn. Every time someone told me, "You’re too slow," "You’re too short," or any other limitation they tried to place on me, I saw it as a challenge to prove them wrong. Those words didn’t discourage me; they fueled me. They pushed me to work harder, to grow stronger, to aim higher.

Over time, boxing became more than just a sport; it became a part of who I am. It taught me to embrace challenges, to thrive in adversity, and to always strive for more. It's a journey that has taken me further than I could have ever imagined—achieving far beyond what I once thought was possible.

Jill:   Know you’ve always been gracious. You took the greatest risks but whom on your team do share this with?

Raja: I would say Dominik Junge, my long-time trainer and close friend, has been with me through every high and low, every risk taken, every victory and defeat. He’s been my rock—a constant source of support and strength. Without Dominik, none of this would have been possible. In fact, there were times when he believed in me even more than I believed in myself.

Jill: What do you miss about boxing?

Raja: I don’t have many regrets—I’ve had it all, and I’ve cherished every moment. Everything in life has its time. Now, my focus has shifted, and I’m more involved on a systemic level. Serving as the WBC Ratings Chairwoman and being part of the Female Commission, as well as taking on supervisory roles, holds great meaning for me. It feels like a natural progression, one that allows me to stay connected to the sport I love while continuing to push boundaries and make an impact, albeit from a different perspective.

Jill:  Why did you chose to stay involved?

Raja: The sport means the world to me, but even more so, the people I have the privilege of working with. Every interaction is a chance for me to learn, grow, and share my experiences. The WBC has given me so much throughout my journey, and now it feels like it’s my turn to give back. This is my opportunity to support and uplift the next generation of boxers, helping them reach their full potential and achieve their dreams.

Jill:  Outside of the sport what’s important to you?

Raja: My family, my friends, and the pursuit of learning are at the core of who I am. I consider myself a true learner—I have a deep passion for growing and gaining new knowledge, even when the process is challenging. It's not always easy, but I thrive on those moments of struggle because they lead to growth and transformation.

Jill:  The best and the worst part of women’s boxing now?

Raja: The most exciting thing is how rapidly women’s boxing is growing—it’s truly thriving. We have incredible, talented women in the sport and increasing attention from fans and the media. However, it’s crucial that we don’t simply replicate the “men’s” boxing business model. Women’s boxing is unique, defined by its own style, personality, and grace. It’s this individuality that sets us apart, and we must protect and celebrate what makes us truly special.

Jill: Give me your acceptance speech in a sentence.

Raja: Thank you for seeing my team and me!

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