The FightPost Prospect of the Year: Harli Whitwell
It’s the time for festive cheer, but it’s also time for the obligatory end-of-year honours. The last twelve months have been difficult for women’s boxing. Much of the momentum from previous years has been lost. Waining interest. Fights were incredibly hard to come by. But there is renewed hope that 2025 will be different. In truth, it has to be different. But despite the difficulties, 2024 has still thrown up a few little gems to celebrate. Especially with all the up-and-coming talent that is coming through the ranks. If they are allowed to shine, women’s boxing is in safe hands with the stars of the future.
The likes of Hannah Robinson, Lillie Winch, and Sian O’Toole are already working their way up the ranks. Talented prospects who will likely be on the brink of big things this time next year. The professional debuts of former amateur stars Gemma Richardson, Shona Whitwell and Cindy Ngamba will add even more shine to the female ranks in 2025. The multi-time American National Champion Perla Bazaldua has just made her professional debut in some style. Bazaldua is tipped to be a future superstar. In truth, any of the above names would be fitting of the prospect of the year honours.
But Harli Whitwell has the look of a fighter who could go really far. Five fights and five wins have shown us much potential. Only a few lingering niggling injuries have held her back somewhat. But at just 24, Whitwell is still a baby in the sport, and time is very much on her side. The super-featherweight hopeful has the look of a young Mikaela Mayer. If her rise through the ranks continues, that crowd-pleasing style that she has, could break her out from the crowd.
Whitwell wouldn’t look out of place on the upcoming Boxxer all-female show in March. She has the potential to go a long way in the professional ranks, and therefore, despite some incredibly tough competition, Harli Whitwell is the FightPost Prospect of the Year for 2024.
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