Cris Cyborg Steps into the Boxing Ring
After making a name for herself in various MMA promotions, Cris Cyborg is now venturing into the world of boxing.
Tonight, Cyborg will be facing off against Kelsey Wickstrum at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. The six-round bout is set to precede the main event featuring unbeaten welterweight Jesus Resendiz and Rosekie Cristobal.
Both fights will be streamed live on spectationsports.com (10 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. PT).
During Thursday’s weigh-in, Cyborg tipped the scales at 154.8 pounds, while Wickstrum came in at 152.8 pounds.
Originally hailing from Curitiba, Brazil, and now residing in Huntington Beach, California, the 38-year-old Cyborg last competed in a mixed martial arts bout on October 7, where she defeated Cat Zingano in the first round at Bellator 300 in San Diego.
Following her victory over Zingano, Cyborg took a break before teaming up with trainer Jose Benavidez, Sr., the father and trainer of undefeated super middleweight contender David Benavidez. Under Benavidez’s guidance, Cyborg honed her boxing skills, focusing on distance fighting, defense, footwork, and punch setups.
With one boxing match already under her belt in December 2022, where she secured a dominant decision win over Gabrielle Holloway, Cyborg is now looking to make a statement against Wickstrum.
Wickstrum, a 36-year-old fighter from Redding, California, boasts a 2-0, 1 KO record, with her most recent victory coming against Sudana Moore in the third round.
Cyborg is determined to showcase her boxing abilities and technical prowess in the ring, emphasizing her willingness to engage in a battle if necessary while also highlighting the importance of skill and strategy in securing victory.
Cyborg’s Future in Boxing
While Cyborg has the option to return to MMA, she is fully committed to her boxing career and aims to challenge the top fighters in the 154 or 160-pound division.
Expressing interest in a potential matchup against Claressa Shields, whether in a boxing ring or MMA cage, Cyborg believes her diverse combat sports background gives her an edge over Shields, who is transitioning to MMA.
As she prepares to face Wickstrum, Cyborg remains focused on her immediate opponent but has her sights set on securing high-profile fights that will captivate fans and elevate the sport of boxing.
Conclusion:
Cris Cyborg’s transition to boxing signifies a new chapter in her combat sports journey, as she seeks to make her mark in the ring and take on formidable opponents. With a strong foundation in MMA and a dedicated training regimen, Cyborg’s foray into boxing promises exciting matchups and potential showdowns with top contenders in the division.
