Jade Jones Transitions to Boxing
Jade Jones, a two-time Olympic taekwondo champion, is embarking on a new chapter in her athletic career by transitioning to boxing, less than a year after a disappointing early exit at the 2024 Olympics. The Flint, Wales native made a name for herself in taekwondo, capturing gold medals at both the 2012 London Games and the Rio Olympics in 2016.
Emotional Farewell to Taekwondo
Despite the emotional weight of retiring from a sport that defined her life, Jones is not one to shy away from new challenges.
“I am taekwondo—it has shaped my life, and I will always cherish the sport,”
she expressed, acknowledging her enduring love for taekwondo while still incorporating it into her training routine.
A Fresh Start in Boxing
Recognizing the need for a fresh start following her Olympic experience, Jones has chosen to forge a path in boxing—a sport she views as both daunting and exhilarating.
“Most athletes would opt for retirement after reaching such highs, but I still feel the drive within me, and I’m eager for the challenge ahead,”
she stated. Jones will make her boxing debut against Egypt Criss, the daughter of hip-hop figures Anthony ‘Treach’ Criss and Sandra ‘Pepa’ Denton, on March 7 in Derby, an encounter she finds both thrilling and surreal.
Challenges of Starting Anew
Having only taken up boxing a year ago, Jones quickly discovered the sport’s rigorous demands and the challenge of starting anew.
“Transitioning from the top of one sport to the bottom of another is incredibly humbling,”
she remarked, recalling her initial foray into boxing when others doubted her aspirations. Fortunately, training under the mentorship of former professional boxer Stephen ‘Swifty’ Smith at Liverpool’s 4 Corners Gym has fostered significant growth in her skills.
“The coaching team has closely monitored my progress without rushing things. They’ve supported me for all the right reasons, and that has made a difference in my journey,”
Jones shared, reflecting on her supportive environment.
Aiming for Championship Glory
Despite the intense competition she faces, Jones is motivated by the prospect of becoming a champion in a new arena.
“I know that aiming to be a world champion in boxing is a bold ambition, yet I have faith in my work ethic and resilience,”
she affirmed, drawing from her experience in taekwondo. She emphasized the importance of taking her progression one bout at a time, while remaining committed to relishing the journey.
Preparing for the Big Fight
Approaching her first boxing match with a mix of excitement and nerves, Jones is fully immersed in preparing for various aspects of the fight, including the iconic ring walk—a stark departure from her taekwondo past.
“Embracing every moment, from the weigh-in to getting my hands wrapped, has been vital. I want to create unforgettable memories through this journey, and I take pride in the commitment I’ve made,”
she stated.
Support from Team Crazy
Inspired by her former housemate, Lauren Price, a boxing champion with a similar background in martial arts, Jones will also be supported by family and friends, collectively referred to as ‘Team Crazy.’ Additionally, she carries the memory of her late grandfather, Martin Foulkes, who introduced her to taekwondo and has been a source of inspiration in her life.
“I’ll be striving to make my grandad proud. His name is on my shorts as a reminder of the unwavering support he provided in my journey,”
Jones concluded, setting her sights on both the challenges and triumphs ahead in the boxing ring.
