Published: 9 July, 2009, 21:50
Edited: 9 July, 2009, 21:50
Russians like Kostya Tszyu or Nikolay Valuev have become household names in the world of boxing. But there’s another one, Natalia Ragozina - the undisputed women’s champion, who has defended her 7 titles 21 times.
Mohammed Ali's daughter, Leyla, is probably biting her nails when she watches all the success that Ragozina has achieved. Ali's career was put on hold after she gave birth to her child and she hasn't stepped in the ring since 2007.
However, for the "Russian Hammer" Ragozina, the American fighter remains a much desired opponent.
“Of course, I'm ready to fight her anytime,” said Ragozina. “It even used to be a dream. But I cannot run after her anymore. My days in track and field are long gone. I understand that she's got married and had a baby. But I got married as well and also had a baby and then returned to the ring. I'm not running away from anyone like Leila Ali. If our fight does happen, it will be very interesting, but I know that I'm much stronger.”
Read the full interview
In her latest title defense Ragozina fought against another American, Laura Ramsey, a bout the Russian won by a unanimous decision.
But the crowd’s attention was drawn not only to the way Ragozina knocked down her opponent and kept her at a jabs length throughout the fight. It was her unique outfit that brought the fans to their feet after she took of her robe to reveal a sexy school girl.
Those who didn't see that fight risk a chance of never seeing her in this dress again as Ragozina chooses a brand new design for every bout.
“I wanted to look feminine when I step into the ring,” she said. “After all, I'm involved in a female business. I always want to look elegant. This may grow into a pro-boxing clothing line and I have already been on a couple of catwalks.”
Ragozina’s road to fame began long before her pro-boxing glory. She started in track and field, combining that with photo shoots.
Of course, modeling calls went through the roof when she started knocking out her opponents. To date her semi-nude pictures have appeared in top international magazines. Although she is still wanted in glamour publications, the movie business is her new calling.
“It's not that hard for me to transform,” she said. “Boxing is one thing, and showbiz is another. But I'm not a showgirl; I'm a professional athlete. And I combine the two to make it look beautiful and dignified.”
There are people that are turned off by a sight of two women in a boxing ring, a fact that has long prevented the discipline from being part of the Olympic Games. The stereotypes can't last, however, and we may see a change at the summer games in London in 2012.