Names like Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson, and Muhammad Ali frequently take centre stage when discussing boxing superstars. But with amazing fighters who have broken records, dispelled preconceptions, and redefined what it means to be a champion, women’s boxing has forged its own legacy over the years. In addition to showcasing incredible talents in the ring, these women cleared the path for later generations in a sport that was previously controlled by men.
Let’s examine the top five female boxers in history who have had an indisputable impact on the sport.
1. Laila Ali – The Undefeated Champion
It would be impossible to discuss women’s boxing without bringing up Laila Ali, the renowned Muhammad Ali’s daughter. With the burden of having a strong heritage, Laila created her own name rather than only using her father’s.
- Record: 21 knockouts, 24 victories, and 0 defeats
- Achievements: WBC, WIBA, IWBF, and IBA female super middleweight titles are among her accomplishments.
Ali was renowned for both her ring intellect and her amazing punching strength. In boxing history, she achieved a remarkable feat of dominating her division and retiring undefeated. Her fights against opponents like Christy Martin and Joe Frazier’s daughter, Jacqui Frazier-Lyde (which was a type of historic “Ali vs. Frazier” rematch), demonstrated her tenacity and resolve.
Beyond boxing, Laila Ali rose to prominence as a female athlete role model. She raised awareness of women’s boxing around the world and demonstrated that women could succeed in a sport that has historically been associated with men.
2. Claressa Shields – The GWOAT (Greatest Woman of All Time)
Claressa “T-Rex” Shields is one of the fighters who has transformed women’s boxing in the modern era. She has gained the moniker “GWOAT” (Greatest Woman of All Time) due to her unparalleled supremacy.
- As of 2025, the record is 14 victories and 0 defeats.
- Accomplishments: Undisputed middleweight champion, world champion in three different weight classes, and two-time Olympic gold medallist (2012)
Shields became the first American boxer to win consecutive Olympic gold medals, regardless of gender. She continued that pace in the professional ring, winning more titles in a variety of weight classes more quickly than any other boxer in history.
She is practically invincible due to her aggressive fighting style, amazing defence, and lightning-fast combos. In addition to being a champion in the ring, Shields is an advocate for change because of her strong stance on equal pay and respect for women in combat sports.
3. Cecilia Brækhus – The First Lady of Boxing
Cecilia Braekhus, a Norwegian, is considered by many to be among the greatest female boxers of all time. She is referred to as “The First Lady of Boxing,” has won an unparalleled number of titles, and was the first female to simultaneously hold all four major boxing titles (WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO).
- Score: 37 victories, 2 defeats
- Accomplishments: The longest-reigning female welterweight champion and the first female boxer to simultaneously hold all four titles
Brækhus was practically impenetrable in her peak due to her technical skill, quickness, and defensive expertise. She became the uncontested welterweight category queen after successfully defending her titles for years.
Her reign raised awareness of women’s boxing worldwide and served as an inspiration to boxing enthusiasts in Europe. She demonstrated that greatness knows no geographical bounds by becoming a trailblazer for fighters in areas where the sport was less well-known.
4. Christy Martin – The Coal Miner’s Daughter
Christy Martin was the boxer who made women’s boxing more well known in the 1990s, while it was fighting for acceptance. As the first female boxer to receive significant television attention, she was known by the nickname “The Coal Miner’s Daughter.” She was also frequently featured on Mike Tyson’s undercards, which was unprecedented for women at the time.
- Record: 3 draws, 7 defeats, and 49 victories
- Accomplishments: WBC super welterweight champion, first female endorser signed by Don King
Martin’s unwavering attitude, strong punches, and brave fighting style made her a crowd favourite. She is frequently credited with introducing women’s boxing to the world with her historic 1996 bout against Deirdre Gogarty, which was televised on Showtime.
Martin endured severe personal hardships outside of the ring, like as escaping a near-fatal domestic assault. Her tenacity in both life and boxing has made her a real trailblazer and inspiration, demonstrating that heroes are known for their bravery as much as their triumphs.
5. Katie Taylor – The Pride of Ireland
Katie Taylor is often recognised by boxing fans as the most inspirational boxer of our time. Taylor, referred to as the “Pride of Ireland,” has played a significant role in the globalisation of women’s boxing.
- As of 2025, the record is 23 victories and 1 defeat.
- Accomplishments: Undisputed lightweight champion, two-weight world champion, 2012 Olympic gold medallist
During her illustrious amateur career, Taylor contributed to the Olympic inclusion of women’s boxing. She entered the professional ranks and maintained her dominance after winning gold in London 2012.
She is respected throughout the world for her technical proficiency, footwork, and unwavering willpower. The thrilling victory over Delfine Persoon in 2019 is regarded as one of the best women’s boxing bouts ever. Taylor has regularly been the main attraction at important tournaments, packing arenas and demonstrating that women’s boxing can be just as profitable as men’s.
Honorable Mentions
- Although most people agree that the top five are the best, a number of other female fighters have made important contributions to the sport.
- Known as “The Most Dangerous Woman in the World,” Lucia Rijker was feared for her ability to knock out opponents.
- Ann Wolfe: One of the most famous knockouts in boxing history, she is renowned for her tremendous hitting power.
- Amanda Serrano: A multi-division champion whose adaptability and tenacity keep shattering stereotypes.
Conclusion
The history of women’s boxing is replete with champions who have excelled outside of the sport, from Laila Ali’s unbeaten run to Claressa Shields’ current supremacy. In a field that previously disregarded them, these women battled for equality, respect, and visibility in addition to winning battles.
The five greatest female boxers in history – Katie Taylor, Christy Martin, Cecilia Braekhus, Claressa Shields, and Laila Ali – are more than just skilled fighters. They are trailblazers who demonstrated that women in the boxing industry can be just as competitive, talented, and marketable as men.
Young girls throughout the world are still motivated by their legacies, which guarantees that the upcoming generation of fighters will have an even bigger stage on which to display their skills. These women are among the greatest of all time in a sport where legends are created inside the ropes.
Also Read: Top 10 Male Boxers of All Time
