Alycia Baumgardner: Momentum in Boxing
Alycia Baumgardner has a clear understanding of how vital momentum is in the world of boxing. Just three weeks post her 16th professional victory, she is already eager to advance her career. In her recent bout, Baumgardner (16-1, 7 KOs) secured a unanimous decision win over the previously undefeated Jennifer Miranda (12-1, 1 KO) during the highly anticipated Taylor vs. Serrano 3 event held at Madison Square Garden, an experience that has left her feeling revitalized and hungry for more.
Reflecting on Performance
Reflecting on her performance, Baumgardner expressed her usual perfectionist tendencies.
“Admittedly, it took me a while to watch the fight again,” she shared with Uncrowned. “I can sometimes feel anxious about seeing how I performed, but the outcome wasn’t as disappointing as I feared. Initially, I rated myself a B-plus, but cooler feelings suggest my performance was closer to a C-plus. This just motivates me to showcase more of my potential. Miranda proved to be a tough adversary, which pushed me to stay sharp in my game. I was pleased with how I adapted and executed what I’ve been training for under Derrick James’s guidance.”
Competing at Madison Square Garden
Baumgardner is no stranger to competing in prestigious arenas, having headlined major events across the UK in cities like Sheffield, Manchester, and London. However, her recent experience at Madison Square Garden stands out as particularly special.
“Competing at the Garden was a longstanding dream of mine since I witnessed the first Taylor and Serrano match there. The venue’s rich history makes it a bucket-list achievement for any boxer. But now, my ambition has intensified—I’m eager to face Katie Taylor next and deliver a fight that surpasses previous encounters.”
Facing Katie Taylor
The respect Baumgardner holds for Taylor’s accomplishments is evident, yet she believes she possesses the skill set capable of toppling the Irish legend.
“Many may view me as beneath Katie’s level, yet I firmly believe I’m not just on par, but potentially a cut above her,” she stated with conviction. “I offer a unique blend of intelligence, power, and technique that I believe can outmaneuver her established game. Most fighters lack the natural athleticism I possess, which I know will be a challenge for Katie.”
The Changing Landscape of Women’s Boxing
With Taylor (25-1, 6 KOs) nearing what some believe could be the twilight of her career, having recently turned 39, the landscape is shifting in women’s boxing. Baumgardner has identified that a matchup with Taylor could serve both their careers, noting,
“Fighting Katie in her home nation of Ireland would be incredible. I’m accustomed to the challenge of facing opponents on their turf—it tends to work to my advantage, fueling my underdog spirit and elevating my performance.”
Future Aspirations
As the boxing scene experiences a resurgence thanks to the efforts of Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, Baumgardner acknowledges the importance of these advancements for female fighters.
“Under M.V.P., it really feels like I’m a part of a greater mission rather than just another name in the lineup,” she remarked.
Looking ahead, Baumgardner revealed her desire to first face her mandatory challenger Delphine Persoon (50-3, 20 KOs), with whom she has history, having fought to a no-contest last September.
“Battling Persoon and achieving a decisive victory would ideally set the stage for my fight with Katie,” she noted. “Given the current scenario, a clash between Katie and I would not only be for the title but could very well mark the end of her career. I respect all my opponents but am ready to showcase my capabilities fully.”
With ambitions at an all-time high, Alycia Baumgardner is preparing to cement her legacy in women’s boxing, set her sights firmly on Katie Taylor, and strive for the top rank in the sport.
