Tiara Brown Reflects on Her Title Defense Victory
FORT MYERS, Fla. — Tiara Brown confidently identifies the pivotal moment in her recent championship fight. When asked about her most effective strike in the ring, the WBC featherweight champion is quick to respond.
“That left hook to the body. I hurt her really badly,” Brown recalled, explaining how this moment transformed her title defense in Houston. “She said, that’s when I knew, oh, it’s over for you. And then she started holding on.”
Underdog Mentality Persists
Despite being the champion, the Fort Myers native remains committed to her underdog mindset. Brown asserts that her journey from seeker to target has not altered her fighting style; she continues to bring the intensity that led to her championship.
“I always feel like the underdog. I always feel like I have to give 120%, and I’ll continue to do that in everything I do, both in and outside the ring,” Brown commented.
Intensive Preparation
Her preparation for defending her title was even more rigorous than her initial training to win it. Brown trained diligently in Fort Myers before heading to her gym in Hillcrest Heights, DC, for five weeks of focused practice.
“I actually trained ten times harder to keep this belt than I did to win it because now I’m the one with a target on my back,” Brown said. “But I’m from Fort Myers. I will always see myself as the hunter, not the hunted.”
Support System
Brown’s success is deeply rooted in the support she receives from family, friends, and sponsors, who travel across the nation to cheer her on. She appreciates the financial sacrifices made by her followers.
“It’s incredible to have fans and family willing to spend money on flights and accommodations just to come see me fight. It makes me feel so loved,” Brown expressed.
A Connection to Boxing Royalty
Addionally, the relationship Brown shares with boxing legend Laila Ali, the daughter of Muhammad Ali, elevates her story. Laila awarded her championship belt and continues to mentor Brown.
“Laila Ali presented me with this belt and has been checking on me regularly. She advises me to be aggressive in the ring,” Brown shared. “Having the GOAT mentor me is incredible.”
Aspiring for Greater Achievements
As she looks to the future, Brown has ambitious plans, aiming to unify all featherweight titles before moving up to the 130-pound category. “I want to fight everyone with belts in my weight class and then establish my legacy by moving up,” she stated.
Brown maintains her conditioning through disciplined habits, focusing on sleep, nutrition, and hydration. Her perspective on rest is unconventional.
“My body feels great. I rest when I sleep. Other than that, it’s game time. Champions like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant didn’t rest,” Brown concluded.
Future Plans and Message to Fort Myers
Brown plans to return to the ring in December or January, aiming to unify the featherweight division. Her message to the Fort Myers community reflects her champion mentality:
“Fort Myers, we are here. We aren’t going anywhere. 239 gang, gang,” Brown declared.
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been adapted with AI assistance. Our editorial team ensures all reporting across platforms maintains fairness and accuracy.
