The Evolution of Women's Boxing

Females are now a large part of USA Boxing and can compete in sanctioned amateur competition within the United States and internationally. There are currently almost 2,000 female boxers registered with USA Boxing. Rules regarding women’s boxing are similar to the men’s program with a few minor differences including: the length of rounds, the use of breast protectors instead of cups and a required waiver stating that the participant is not pregnant at the time of competition.

In 1997, USA Boxing hosted the first-ever Women’s National Championships in Augusta, Ga. Sixty-six women competed in this historical event. One year later, the second Women’s National Championships in Anaheim, Calif., drew over 100 boxers, featured the addition of a junior division to include females ages 15 and 16, and also added the 95 and 100 pound weight classes. In July of 1998, another historical event took place in Scranton, Pa., as the U.S. hosted the first-ever women’s international dual. The U.S. defeated Canada 6-1. The future is bright for women’s boxing as the U.S. hosted the first ever Women's World Championships in November of 2001. The hosting of a World Championship is considered a prelude to a potential spot in future Olympic Games.

The popularity of women’s boxing has increased dramatically since its inception in 1993. Not only are the number of women members growing rapidly in the U.S., there is a dramatic increase in female boxing numbers around the world. The Swedish Amateur Boxing Association was the pioneer of women’s amateur boxing, sanctioning female boxing events as early as 1988. Sweden along with Canada and the U.S. are considered to house the top female boxing programs in the world. There are currently 34 countries worldwide that have a recognized female boxing program.