Catford’s Ellie Scotney bidding to become unified world super-bantamweight champion
Catford’s Ellie Scotney is looking to become a unified world champion at super-bantamweight tomorrow night.
The South Londoner defends her IBF belt at Manchester Arena with France’s Segolene Lefebvre’s WBO strap also on the line in a clash of two unbeaten boxers.
Scotney (8-0) won the European title in only her sixth bout and then earned her world title honours by outpointing Cherneka Johnson in June 2023.
The South Londoner – a big Crystal Palace fan – has her sights set on ending up the undisputed ruler of her division.
Mexican pair Yamileth Mercado (22-3) and Erika Cruz Hernandez hold the WBC and WBA world titles respectively.
“I want to be the last one standing at 122lbs – but all that matters now is Saturday night,” Scotney told the South London Press. “As soon as I made my first defence (against Laura Soledad Griffa in September) I made it clear I wanted big fights.
“I want to fight the other world champions and if I had my way that would’ve been in my last fight but it is about God’s timing and God’s plan.
“Making weight is always a hard factor, so I will be stepping up through the weights (in the future).
“If you look at who I have boxed I have been matched hard from the get go and I will take risks. I have boxed five former world champions.”
Scotney wanted to face Lefebvre earlier in her pro career but was unable to nail down a deal before she owned one of the world titles.
Her 30-year-old opponent has a record of 18-0 and has boxed 85 more rounds – 155 – in the paid ranks.
Lefebvre has already made three defences of the WBO title that she won in late 2021.
“She is young, undefeated and a technical boxer,” said Scotney. “She has got the length to make it an awkward night – so I have got to take the fight to her.”
Scotney has been trained by Shane McGuigan for three years.
“I believe now it has really clicked with him,” said Scotney. “He is a voice that I trust. He has been there and delivered.”
PICTURE: MATCHROOM BOXING