British boxing sensation Caroline Dubois has successfully defended her WBC lightweight world title with a commanding performance on her highly anticipated debut in the United States.
Dubois Delivers Masterclass in Florida
The 24-year-old from London, an Olympian in 2020 and one of Britain's most promising professional fighters, put on a clinic against Italy's Camila Panatta. Dubois secured a unanimous 10-round decision, with all three judges scoring the fight identically at 99-90 in her favour.
From the opening bell, Dubois (12-0-1, 5 KOs) established her range and controlled the tempo. She applied steady pressure and showcased pinpoint accuracy, systematically wearing down her game opponent. The fight's most dramatic moment came near the end of the sixth round, when a sharp check right hook from Dubois sent Panatta to the canvas.
Panatta (8-3-1, 1 KO), a southpaw based in West Palm Beach who has trained with elite champions like Katie Taylor, showed immense heart by continually pressing forward. However, she was ultimately outclassed by the sharper, more accurate work of the champion.
A Landmark Night for Women's Boxing
This victory marks Dubois's third successful defence of the title she was elevated to last year following a rapid rise through the professional ranks. The win also solidifies her status on the global stage, making a significant statement in her first fight outside the UK. She is the younger sister of British heavyweight contender Daniel Dubois.
The bout headlined an undercard featuring four women's world title fights, underscoring the depth and talent in the female side of the sport.
Valle Prevails in Bloody War
In another standout contest on the undercard, Costa Rica's Yokasta Valle retained her WBC strawweight title in a brutal and thrilling battle. Valle (34-3, 10 KOs) emerged with a majority decision win over the fast-rising contender Yadira Bustillos (11-2, 2 KOs).
The judges' scores were 98-92, 96-94, and 95-95 in a fight that delighted the crowd despite a lack of emphasis on defence. The two warriors combined to throw a staggering 1,045 punches over ten furious rounds.
Valle, a three-division world champion who features on most pound-for-pound lists, used her experience and fast combinations to dictate the early pace. A series of accidental head clashes left both women bloodied, but Valle's superior accuracy carried her through to the final bell.
The evening served as a powerful showcase for women's boxing, with established champions like Dubois and Valle demonstrating their class while emerging talents proved their mettle.
