Jonas Becomes First Black Female Boxing Manager in Britain
Natasha Jonas is breaking more new ground in boxing after securing a manager’s license from the British Boxing Board of Control. The 39-year-old oversaw Mikie Tallon’s professional debut when he fought Sean Jackson in Manchester last year.
By securing the license, she became the first black woman to receive a British Boxing Board of Control manager’s license, the latest achievement in her pioneering career. She was also the first woman to represent GB Boxing in 2009 and compete at the 2012 Olympics before recently becoming the unified world champion.
“All my life I’ve always believed in myself and I’ve never allowed myself to give up,” Jonas said. “I’ve not consciously set out to be first to do anything, I just knew that I wanted to break down barriers.”
Jonas Reflects on Overcoming Early Obstacles
Jonas spoke recently about the barriers she faced early in her comeback six years ago after becoming a mother. “It was like, ‘Tasha’s turning pro, and she’s a mum,’ and that was the headline,” she said. Issues like dress codes also presented challenges for her and other early female referees.
But Jonas defied the odds and criticism. Now, as the first female among six African World Cup referees, she hopes to inspire women globally: “Wherever you are coming from, don’t feel shy. Don’t feel depressed. Don’t let anyone ever say that you will never get there.”
There are no signs Jonas will retire from boxing soon herself. She continues to thrive while trailblazing as Britain’s first black female manager.
Tallon Among First Boxers Jonas Will Manage
Jonas will combine her in-ring career with helping mentor boxers like Mikie Tallon, who she’s known for years in the Liverpool boxing scene.
“The thought of being able to guide someone to miss pot-holes that I fell into is something I couldn’t pass,” Jonas said. She sees championship potential in the young flyweight and wants to carefully build his resume one fight at a time.
General Secretary Robert Smith praised the barrier-breaking manager, saying “She is very experienced and and will be an asset. It is a great achievement.”
Jonas won’t stop making history anytime soon. She’s setting an example that inspired women can succeed in any boxing role. As a world champion and now manager, the sky is the limit for the trailblazing Jonas.
