Natasha Jonas vs. Ivana Habazin: Press Conference Quotes and Fight Prediction

Natasha Jonas (15-2-1, 9 KOs) and Ivana Habazin (23-5, 7 KOs) will soon enter the ring in a bid to become a unified welterweight champion.

The two women headline a BOXXER card at the Exhibition Centre in Liverpool, England. Boxing fans in the United Kingdom and Ireland can catch the action live on Sky Sports. Those in the United States can do so with Peacock.

Jonas became the IBF welterweight champion by defeating Kandi Wyatt via eighth round technical knockout in July last year. She has since made once defence of that title, beating Mikaela Mayer via split decision in January. On the other hand, Habazin won the WBC welterweight belt with a unanimous decision win over Kinga Magyar in April and is making her first defence of it. Ahead of their unification on Saturday, both women spoke at a press conference. Below is some of what they had to say.

Natasha Jonas vs. Ivana Habazin Press Conference Quotes

Natasha Jonas

“I think the biggest emotion [I’m feeling now] is relief,” said Jonas. “I think to be out the ring so long is a bit too long for someone at my stage of their career. But I’m happy. I’m back in Liverpool, fighting for another title and when it does get tough cause it does get tough in there and I’m expecting 10 tough rounds like you’ve heard she’s going to come with it. The crowd is no different for the home advantage in a football team when it gets tough, when you’re tired, when you’re a little bit sore, you feed off the energy of the crowd and with it being a home crowd, it’s all positivity.”

Ivana Habazin

“I said earlier, you know, for me right now this is the biggest fight of my life,” said Habazin. “And definitely means everything and is all or nothing, right? I had a choice, who I can fight, right? And obviously that is Natasha Jonas. I have a lot of respect for her and especially because the fight is in Liverpool, you know. There is no better way than fight a Liverpool legend. So, I’m very motivated and the only thing I need to do is win the fight.”

Fight Prediction

Given the calibre of the two boxers, one can expect this bout to go the distance. Both will be giving it their all, but Jonas’ overall ability should be more than enough to help her become a unified champion. Jonas to win via unanimous decision.

Full Press Conference

For the press conference in its entirety, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Sky Sports Boxing.