Jade Jones: Two-time Olympic taekwondo champion to make boxing debut

Jade Jones, one of Great Britain's most celebrated Olympians and a two-time taekwondo gold medallist, is embarking on a new career in professional boxing The 32-year-old from Flint, Wales, announced the transition less than a year after a first-round defeat at the 2024 Olympic Games, a result which she said prompted the need for a change Jones, who captured Olympic glory in London in 2012 and successfully defended her title in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, is trading the taekwondo mat for the boxing ring in pursuit of a new challenge

In an emotional farewell to the sport that she says "made my life," Jones explained her decision was not one of simple retirement "The way the Olympics went... I needed a fresh start," she stated, adding, "Most people would have retired whereas I've still got the fire in my belly and I'm craving the challenge" This pivot represents a significant undertaking, as Jones moves from a discipline dominated by kicks to one focused entirely on punches, requiring a fundamental shift in technique and strategy. She acknowledged her deep gratitude for taekwondo, a sport she still loves and practices, but felt a new direction was essential for her competitive drive

Jones's professional debut is scheduled for March 7 in Derby, where she is expected to face Egypt Criss The move marks a compelling new chapter for the Welsh athlete as she aims to conquer a second professional discipline after reaching the pinnacle of her first