(DEC 8) Pipiwai’s own Lani Daniels has concluded her latest world title defence with a unanimous-decision loss to Germany’s Sarah Scheurich on Sunday morning (NZT), bringing an end to her IBF World Light Heavyweight championship reign.

Daniels, a two-division world champion, entered the bout looking to extend her impressive run on the international stage. The judges scored the contest 2x 97–93 and 98–92 in favour of Scheurich, who delivered a composed performance in front of her home crowd.

This fight marked a new chapter for Daniels, as it was her first professional bout without long-time trainer John Conway in her corner. For this camp, Daniels chose to return home to Pipiwai, training under the guidance of her family, led by her sister and head coach, Caroline Daniels. She completed additional sparring both in Australia and locally with Trish Vaka.

The matchup aired on DAZN, serving as part of a card headlined by German heavyweights Temur Mamoyan and Djuar El Scheich, who competed for the WBA Gold Heavyweight title.

Inside the ring, Daniels and Scheurich produced an entertaining, competitive contest. The opening rounds were tightly contested, with both athletes finding moments of success. Scheurich, with advantages in height and reach, worked effectively at range and used her physicality in close exchanges.

As the fight progressed into the later rounds, the high pace began to take a toll on Daniels, who continued to push forward despite visible fatigue. Scheurich maintained her momentum through the final bell to secure the decision victory.

Daniels now joins a small group of New Zealand fighters who have competed in Germany, including Daniella Smith, who made history in 2010 by becoming the first IBF women’s world champion, and Joseph Parker, who earned his first major regional title there in 2014.

What lies ahead for Daniels remains open. After winning her first world title, she briefly considered retirement before signing with D&L Events under promoter Dean Lonergan and continuing her career. Some commentators have suggested that a move down in weight could be a strong option, as many of her recent world title contests have been close to the Super Middleweight limit.

For now, Daniels returns home with another international experience behind her and plenty of options for the next step in her accomplished career.

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