IBF welterweight champion Natasha Jonas has revealed the much-anticipated all-British bout in opposition to Lauren Value is “definitely on the cards”.
However that may solely occur in the event that they each come by way of their respective fights this Saturday.
Jonas and Value are on the identical card in Liverpool, dwell on Sky Sports activities, with Jonas taking up Croatia’s WBC world champion Ivana Habazin, whereas unbeaten WBA titlist Value faces Colombian Bexcy Mateus.
Value has beforehand instructed Sky Sports activities that she’d reasonably be combating Jonas than Mateus, and Jonas is up for the problem.
“It’s a fight that I’ve signed an extension for. It’s a fight that’s definitely on the cards if we both come through. But I’m not trying to look past the one that’s in front of me. I’ve just got to do my part, which is beat Habazin, so that’s what I’m focused on,” Jonas instructed Sky Sports activities.
35-year-old Habazin has misplaced two of her final 5 fights, however has boxed undisputed champions Claressa Shields and Cecilia Braekhus beforehand in her profession and claimed the vacant WBC welter title in Zagreb in April.
In the meantime, Jonas has gained her final six bouts since shedding by unanimous resolution to Irish star Katie Taylor in 2021. She is assured she will be able to get the higher of her opponent on Saturday.
“She’s been a pro for a very long time, she’s very experienced. She’s been in big nights, big fights and she hasn’t just come to take part. She’s come to win and that will make for a great fight. She’s got a good jab, good feet. I just think whatever she can bring, I’m better,” the Liverpudlian mentioned.
Jonas’ most up-to-date victory was a detailed, cut up resolution victory over Mikaela Mayer to retain her IBF belt. That combat was additionally in Liverpool, and Jonas is hoping to make use of the gang to her benefit.
“We’re such a boxing city. The fans came out in force last time, they’re that second person in the ring with you, spurring you on when you’re absolutely exhausted, so it’s great to be at home fighting for another world title,” she mentioned.
Regardless of saying she is not wanting previous the Habazin combat, Jonas did admit that she has one eye on one thing else, after working all through final December forward of her January bout in opposition to Mayer.
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Natasha Jonas and Lauren Value talk about their upcoming fights and the prospect of going through one another in early 2025
“I’m just happy that I’ll get to enjoy Christmas. Last year I worked all throughout Christmas and it was heartbreaking to see my little girl open her selection boxes, enjoy Christmas dinner and all the desserts with the family and not be able to join in!” she mentioned.
“But on the night, when I got the result, it was all worth it. But it will be nice to enjoy Christmas.”
40-year-old Jonas is coming in direction of the top of her profession, however she hopes that she will be able to add some extra memorable moments earlier than she brings down the curtain on a glittering time within the ring that has seen her maintain titles at each welter and super-welterweight.
If each are victorious, Jonas and Value are on a collision course
“You never think of the accolades that come with winning titles, you just think about winning. I’m pretty sure someone will correct me if I’m wrong, but I think I’ll become the first Brit to unify at two different weights if I win,” she mentioned.
“It’s great for the book or the end of the story, but I’ve just got to focus on winning.
“Plenty of doorways are open in the meanwhile, however you lose, they usually all shut.”
Watch Jonas vs Habazin and Value vs Mateus this Saturday dwell on Sky Sports activities
