Caroline Dubois defeats Terri Harper to consolidate world lightweight championships.
LONDON — Caroline Dubois concluded her rivalry with Terri Harper by securing a unanimous decision victory on Sunday, earning the WBO lightweight title and becoming the unified lightweight champion.
Dubois, who entered the match holding the WBC title, achieved victory with judges’ scores of 98-91, 98-91, and 97-92.
“First of all, I want to express my immense gratitude to everyone. The atmosphere and energy here are incredible,” Dubois stated. “Women’s boxing has often been overlooked in the sport. I owe this achievement to everyone who participated on the card. I understand that Terri Harper may be disappointed. However, Terri performed admirably and demonstrated why she is an exceptionally skilled boxer.”
The contest began as a tactical battle, with both competitors taking their time to settle in, as Harper moved effectively while Dubois had difficulty finding her rhythm.
The fight intensified when Dubois connected with a solid left hand at the conclusion of Round 6, sending Harper to the canvas. The round ended before the action could continue, and Harper recovered well in Round 7, but Dubois’ confidence surged as she sought further openings.
“I felt capable of increasing my pace,” Dubois remarked. “I don’t want to make excuses, but it is what it is. I felt I started off strong. Terri was quite [tentative], which we anticipated, making it somewhat challenging to engage her. Then the sixth round came, and that’s when things changed.”
Round 8 delivered the excitement fans had been anticipating, with both boxers landing significant punches. Dubois continued to unleash her left hand and jab, resulting in a cut above Harper’s left eye.
Realizing she might be trailing on the scorecards, Harper found renewed energy in Rounds 9 and 10, advancing toward Dubois as the fight transformed into a brawl.
Harper achieved success with several powerful right hands and landed a clean left hook just as the bell rang for Round 9. She then unleashed a flurry of punches in Round 10, but it was insufficient to sway the judges.
Heavyweight champion Claressa Shields, who was present with Dubois prior to the match, lifted the new unified lightweight champion onto her shoulders in the ring post-fight as they celebrated together.
This victory positions Dubois for significant future bouts, and she has expressed her desire to become the undisputed champion at 135 pounds. Stephanie Han, also under MVP promotion, holds the WBA title but is scheduled for a rematch with Holly Holm in May. Elif Nur Turhan is the IBF champion and is associated with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom.
Dubois has also indicated her willingness to challenge unified junior lightweight champion Alycia Baumgardner, although the American has maintained that the matchup would be premature for Dubois.
