Fighter Profile: Terri Harper
By Oli Dickson Jefford
Terri Harper has become one of Britain’s biggest boxers in recent years, with a string of high-profile fights and stellar performances.
After a disappointing end to 2021 the Yorkshire star will look to rebound in 2022, with it being likely she’ll compete in a couple of big fights.
As she gets set to step back into the ring this spring, here’s all you need to know about the 25-year-old.
Unusual introduction
Many boxers get into the sport as they have family members who already compete or they take inspiration from watching some of the world’s best in action.
However, Harper’s story is a little different.
She did not begin boxing until the age of 12 after watching an episode of Jack Osbourne: Adrenaline Junkie, where Osbourne boxed to help himself get fit.
After winning European Junior silver in 2012, Harper took some time away from the sport to finish her GCSEs and became disillusioned after losing her first two fights when she returned.
She considered giving up the sport, but after she was approached by a promoter about the possibility of turning professional, she decided to continue her career.
Career to date
Harper’s debut came in November 2017, beating Monika Antonik on points at the Doncaster Dome to start her pro career with a win.
After a run of wins she picked up her first belt, the WBC International lightweight title, beating fellow Brit Nina Bradley in her sixth fight.
And just two fights later she became a world champion, beating Nozipho Bell in July 2019 to win the IBO super-featherweight title in Rotherham.
A unanimous decision victory in Sheffield in February 2020 saw her claim a second title, taking the WBC belt off Eva Wahlstrom and sealing a tenth win in as many fights.
Harper would retain her titles in August 2020 when boxing returned amid the pandemic, drawing with Natasha Jonas in a truly classic encounter, and then beat Katharina Thanderz later that year.
However she lost her belts and suffered a first pro defeat in November 2021, being knocked out by Alycia Baumgardner at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield.
What’s next?
After losing her world titles it is important for Harper to rebuild her career, and it looks as if she is doing just that.
She will fight another former world champion Heather Hardy on the 12 March, on the undercard of the fight between Leigh Wood and Michael Conlan.
An Inter-continental title will be at stake when the two face off, and Harper is arguably the favourite to win that contest.
If she does win, she will likely look to challenge for world titles once again.
Harper was meant to fight Hyun Min Choi in May 2021 before withdrawing with injury and that is a fight that could be on the cards, as could a rematch with Baumgardner.
Photo Credit: Getty Images