Alycia Baumgardner is Now The Women’s IBF Lightweight Champion, So Who’s Next?

What is next for Alycia Baumgardner?

Baumgardner (19-1, 7 KOs) won a unanimous decision over Elif Nur Turhan to claim the IBF women’s lightweight title and become a two-division champion at the College Park Center in Arlington, Texas.

Baumgardner has nearly completed her rise to stardom with the win, as any doubts about her toughness and talent can now be put to rest. Baumgardner had to absorb heavy punches to win the fight, and despite Turhan’s crude attack, she can hit very hard. The win was significant, especially since Turhan had three upset wins the year before.

So who could Baumgardner face next?

Caroline Dubois vs. Stephanie Han Winner?

Dubois is set to fight on February 20 against fellow beltholder Stephanie Han. Baumgardner and Dubois have a rivalry, and fans have opinions on how the fight will play out. It makes sense for Baumgardner to wait and see the result of that fight, which most favor Dubois, before facing the winner. That bout would be for the women’s undisputed lightweight title as well.

Estelle Mossely

A French Olympian with an unbeaten record. Mossely offers a different points-based style that Baumgardner hasn’t faced in her past few fights. It might be an interesting fight if Baumgardner opted to take one in between an undisputed lightweight bout.

Beatriz Ferreira

Ferreira hasn’t fought since being stopped by Turhan, but if she were to return, it would be interesting to see her enter the title mix right away. A two-time Olympian, she is viewed as one of the best of her generation and hope still lingers that she can live up to that promise.

Holly Holm

Holm gave Han a tough fight in their rematch. If she wanted to come back, she could get a big fight against Baumgardner. For older fighters, sometimes a chance is all they need. It would literally be Holm’s last chance for a women’s title.

Alejandra Rojas Rivera

She beat unbeaten L.A. fighter Chelsey Anderson in April. It would be nice to see that win rewarded with a big fight, if nothing else.

Lucas Ketelle

Lucas Ketelle is a boxing writer and podcaster who has appeared on various platforms throughout his career.

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