Geovana Peres is the new WBO Light Heavyweight Champion

Geovana Peres has been crowned WBO Light Heavyweight champion of the world after seeing off Lani Daniels in a thrilling 10 round contest at SKY City in Auckland on Saturday night.

The Brazilian-Kiwi becomes New Zealand’s second WBO world champion, following in the footsteps of Joseph Parker.

Peres was a clear winner on the scorecards, earning the decision 98-92, 96-94 and 98-92, with the judges clearly preferring her relentless attack to the Daniels’ classy counter-punching in what was a relentless toe-to-toe affair.

“I’ve been working so hard for this for the last year and half,” an emotional Peres said.

“I have an amazing team behind me.

“Thank you very much to Lani. She is an amazing fighter. I had to step up my game.”

Peres said she hoped claiming the world title would empower women to chase their dreams and boost the profile of women’s boxing in New Zealand.

“Everybody please support women’s boxing in New Zealand. We have amazing fighters here,” she said.

Daniels, who could count herself an unfortunate loser after putting in a tremendous performance, was gracious in defeat.

“To Geovana, Kia kaha well done. Awesome win,” Daniels said.

Daniels pledged to rebound from the loss, saying it would make her team stronger.

“The lord brought us together for a reason. We ain’t done yet,” she said to her corner.

Via worldboxingnews.net

Photo by BEX CHARTERIS / www.stuff.co.nz