Holly Holm Suffers Another Devastating Setback

Rivalry Built on Controversy

The bad blood between Han and Holm dates back to their first meeting six months ago in Puerto Rico. That bout ended abruptly after an accidental clash of heads forced officials to stop the contest and send it to the scorecards early. Han emerged victorious via technical decision, retaining her WBA title while leaving many unanswered questions.

Saturday’s rematch was supposed to settle the dispute once and for all. Instead, it may have only intensified it.

Han Starts Fast

The undefeated Han entered the rematch determined to leave no doubt. Early in the fight, she appeared to establish control by using her activity and aggression to build an advantage on the scorecards.

The champion landed effective combinations and successfully disrupted Holm’s rhythm throughout the opening rounds. For much of the first half of the fight, Han looked poised to defend her title convincingly.

As the fight progressed, Holm began to find her groove. Despite being 44 years old, the former world champion showcased the elite conditioning and movement that made her one of combat sports’ most accomplished athletes.

Holm increased her output in the middle rounds and repeatedly connected with sharp left hands that snapped Han’s head back. Her speed, footwork, and experience allowed her to steadily close the gap as the fight entered the championship rounds. According to many observers, Holm’s late surge may have been enough to earn her the decision. The judges disagreed.

Judges Side With Han

When the scorecards were announced, Han was awarded a majority decision victory by scores of 96-94, 96-94, and 95-95. Not a single judge scored the fight in Holm’s favor.

The announcement immediately sparked frustration from Holm’s team, which believed their fighter had done enough to secure the win and position herself for a lucrative showdown with Irish boxing legend Katie Taylor. The reaction from Holm’s corner made it clear they viewed the outcome as a missed opportunity.

Katie Taylor Now in Han’s Sights

While the result may have closed one door for Holm, it opened another for Han. Following the victory, the undefeated champion immediately called for a fight with Taylor, one of the biggest names in women’s boxing.

Han’s interest in the matchup goes beyond championship gold. Taylor previously defeated Han’s sister, former world champion Jennifer Han, creating a personal motivation for Stephanie to pursue the fight.

“The next fight I want, I know all the fighters want her: Katie Taylor,” Han told Ariel Helwani after the fight. “She beat my sister, Jennifer Han. I want to have this revenge fight for her.”

What’s Next for Holm?

The loss raises questions about Holm’s future. The former UFC bantamweight champion and multi-time boxing world champion delivered another strong performance and showed she remains competitive against elite opposition despite being in her mid-40s.

However, with the Katie Taylor opportunity potentially slipping away, Holm’s next move remains uncertain. What is certain is that controversy continues to follow her rivalry with Han.

After two fights and two disputed outcomes, many boxing fans may be left wondering whether this story is truly over. For now, Stephanie Han remains undefeated, remains champion, and may have positioned herself for the biggest fight of her career.