Jade Jones marks boxing debut with knockout victory
Jade Jones, the renowned double Olympic taekwondo champion, made a striking entrance into the boxing world on March 7, 2026, with a second-round knockout victory against Egypt Criss at a Misfits Duel event in Derby, England.
Jones, who is 32 years old, transitioned from taekwondo to boxing at the start of last year and has been preparing for this debut for 12 months. Her victory came after she delivered three successive left hooks that sent Criss crashing face-first to the canvas.
Jones’s opponent, Egypt Criss, is the daughter of hip-hop stars Anthony ‘Treach’ Criss and Sandra ‘Pepa’ Denton. The fight showcased Jones’s impressive skills and marked a significant milestone in her athletic career.
Having previously won gold medals in taekwondo at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, Jones’s transition to boxing has been a topic of discussion in her hometown of Flint. She expressed that her new sport has helped her heal from a difficult period after her taekwondo career ended.
Reflecting on her journey, Jones stated, “I was a bit lost. I thought I could be the greatest of all time and win a third Olympic gold and for it to just go up in flames… it was a hard time.” This sentiment highlights the challenges she faced before embracing boxing.
Jones also noted the excitement her success brings to her community, saying, “It’s lovely to see my small town getting really excited again. I didn’t realise how much of an impact it has on people; it gives them a purpose and I can feel them buzzing.”
Her boxing debut not only signifies a new chapter in her career but also serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the importance of resilience and adaptation in sports.
As Jones continues her journey in boxing, her fans and supporters eagerly await her next steps in the ring. The event has undoubtedly reignited interest in her athletic prowess and the potential for future successes in this new discipline.
With her remarkable background and determination, Jade Jones is poised to make a significant impact in the boxing world, following her illustrious career in taekwondo.