Jade Jones makes boxing debut with knockout victory
Jade Jones marked her boxing debut on March 7, 2026, in Derby, England, with a stunning second-round knockout victory against Egypt Criss. The match showcased Jones’s striking prowess as she delivered three successive left hooks that sent Criss crashing face-first to the canvas.
At 32 years old, Jones is a double Olympic taekwondo champion, having won gold medals at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games. Her transition from taekwondo to boxing comes after two decades in the martial arts, and she has spent the last 12 months preparing for this moment.
Jones trained under former professional boxer Stephen ‘Swifty’ Smith at 4 Corners Gym in Liverpool, where she honed her skills for her debut. The anticipation surrounding her transition has been palpable, especially in her hometown of Flint, where her journey has sparked renewed excitement among local residents.
Reflecting on her past, Jones expressed the challenges she faced after her taekwondo career ended. “I was a bit lost. I thought I could be the greatest of all time and win a third Olympic gold and for it to just go up in flames… it was a hard time,” she said. This transition to boxing has provided her with a sense of healing and purpose.
Jones’s first Olympic gold medal was commemorated by a matching post box in her hometown, symbolizing her impact on the community. She noted, “It’s lovely to see my small town getting really excited again. I didn’t realise how much of an impact it has on people; it gives them a purpose and I can feel them buzzing.”
The knockout victory against Criss, who is the daughter of hip-hop stars Anthony ‘Treach’ Criss and Sandra ‘Pepa’ Denton, has further solidified Jones’s status as a formidable athlete in the boxing world. As she embarks on this new chapter, her fans and supporters are eager to see what lies ahead.
Jones’s journey illustrates the importance of resilience and adaptability in sports. “When you win the Olympics there is always a new goal whereas now I’ve learned the best bit was actually the journey,” she remarked, highlighting her growth as an athlete.
As reactions pour in from fans and sports commentators alike, the boxing community is keen to follow Jones’s progress in the ring. Her debut has not only marked a new beginning for her career but has also reignited interest in her story and the potential for future successes.
With her remarkable skills and determination, Jade Jones is poised to make a significant impact in boxing, following her illustrious taekwondo career.