Thorslund vs Johnson: Boxing Fight Update
- Cherneka "Sugar Neekz" Johnson, the current WBA bantamweight world champion adn newest signee of Most Valuable Promotions, is set to challenge IBF champion Shurretta Metcalf for the undisputed...
- The winner of the Johnson-Metcalf fight will claim Metcalf's IBF title, and also the vacant WBO and WBC titles.
- 10 pound-for-pound among women boxers, has voluntarily relinquished her WBO title.
Cherneka Johnson steps into the spotlight to clash with Shurretta Metcalf for the undisputed womenS bantamweight title after Dina Thorslund’s withdrawal due to pregnancy. This exciting turn of events sets the stage for a high-stakes bout on the undercard of Taylor vs. Serrano 3. Johnson,the current WBA bantamweight champion,will now fight for the IBF title,and the vacant WBO and WBC titles held by Thorslund. News Directory 3 is following every angle of this matchup. With nine world champions vying for 21 belts, the card promises an unforgettable night. Discover what’s next for Cherneka Johnson as she strives to unify the titles and claim her place as the division’s best.
cherneka Johnson to Face Shurretta Metcalf for Undisputed Bantamweight Title
Updated June 05, 2025
Cherneka “Sugar Neekz” Johnson, the current WBA bantamweight world champion adn newest signee of Most Valuable Promotions, is set to challenge IBF champion Shurretta Metcalf for the undisputed women’s bantamweight title. This chance arose after WBC and WBO champion Dina Thorslund withdrew from the July 11 unification fight due to her pregnancy.
The winner of the Johnson-Metcalf fight will claim Metcalf’s IBF title, and also the vacant WBO and WBC titles. The highly anticipated matchup will take place on the undercard of Katie taylor vs. Amanda Serrano 3.
Thorslund, ranked No. 10 pound-for-pound among women boxers, has voluntarily relinquished her WBO title. The WBC has approved her designation as champion in recess, ensuring she’ll have the frist shot at the titleholder upon her return.
“life can be such a roller coaster, especially for a female athlete in boxing,” Thorslund said. “I was really looking forward to this fight — the biggest moment of my career… Even though the decision was easy, the athlete in me is sad… But I’ll be back!”
Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian of Most Valuable Promotions expressed their support for Thorslund and indicated her future return is welcome.
johnson, a two-weight champion from Australia, last fought in March, defeating Nina hughes to retain her WBA title.This title fight represents a meaningful step in her career, as she aims to become the undisputed women’s bantamweight champion.Johnson has signed a multifight deal with Most Valuable Promotions.
“It’s a dream come true to fight at Madison Square Garden!” Johnson said. “This feels like a true ‘pinch me’ moment… Not only will I be defending my title, but I’ll also become the undisputed champion! I’m truly looking forward to this next chapter.”
The Taylor-Serrano 3 card now boasts nine world champions competing for a total of 21 belts, marking a record for the most titles contested on a single fight card. The addition of Johnson to the card further elevates the event, promising an exciting night for women’s boxing and the pursuit of the undisputed women’s bantamweight champion.
What’s next
Johnson will now prepare to face Metcalf on July 11, with the goal of unifying the women’s bantamweight titles and solidifying her place as the division’s top fighter.