Tauranga-Born Boxer Cherneka Johnson Makes History as First Māori Undisputed World Champion

In a historic moment for New Zealand boxing, Tauranga-born professional boxer Cherneka Johnson has etched her name into the annals of sports history by becoming the first Māori to be crowned an undisputed world champion. The achievement took place at New York’s iconic Madison Square Garden, where Johnson defeated American contender Shurretta Metcalf in a dramatic and decisive victory.

The fight, which took place on a Friday night in New York, saw Johnson dominate from the outset. Despite Metcalf’s attempts to fight unfairly, including targeting the back of Johnson’s head, the 30-year-old from Ngāti Ranginui descent showed incredible resilience and power. By the eighth round, the referee had seen enough, and the match doctor intervened to stop the fight for Metcalf’s safety.

Johnson, who had already held the WBA Bantamweight title since May 2024, was fighting for the IBF Bantamweight title, with the vacant WBC and WBO titles also on the line. This made the bout the second time a Māori boxer had been in contention for an undisputed world title, but Johnson’s victory marks a first for Māori boxing history.

Boxing commentator Benjamin Watt described the fight as a “total beatdown,” noting that Johnson landed 75 punches to Metcalf’s 21 by the eighth round. “By round five, it was clear that Metcalf needed a knockout to win, and this was Johnson’s fight,” Watt said. “By round eight, the number of punches being landed by Johnson was 75 to Metcalf’s 21, a massive punch difference.”

After the stoppage, Johnson raised her arms in triumph, becoming the first New Zealand-born and Māori boxer to be crowned an undisputed champion in any weight class. “I envisioned this moment so I already feel like I’ve been here before,” Johnson said after the fight. “This is my moment and I get to share it with my team. To be on this amazing card representing women’s boxing… to showcase women in boxing, I’m so grateful and I’m so thankful.”

Johnson was born in Tauranga but has lived in Australia since she was 11. Her journey to the top has been marked by perseverance and passion, and her historic win has already sparked excitement across the boxing world.

Looking ahead, fellow Kiwi boxer Lani Daniels is set to take on America’s Claressa Shields for the Undisputed World Heavyweight title in Little Caesars Arena, Michigan, on July 27. Johnson’s victory has set a new benchmark for New Zealand boxers, especially Māori athletes, and has inspired a new generation of fighters.

As Johnson celebrates this monumental achievement, her story continues to resonate beyond the ring. It is a testament to the power of perseverance, the strength of cultural identity, and the ever-growing influence of New Zealand athletes on the global stage.