International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame 2025
Set to take place on April 4-5, 2025, the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame (IWBHF) is returning to Las Vegas at the Orleans Hotel & Casino for a grand celebration titled “Night of the Stars II.” This two-day event will recognize those who have worked diligently to promote women’s boxing over the past year.
The event will conclude a vibrant week that features the WBC’s Women’s Summit scheduled for April 2nd and 3rd, which aims to discuss the growing interest in women’s boxing and its impact on female athletes. Jill Diamond Chastain from the WBC stated, “The summit will examine how rising fan engagement affects our women athletes and what we can learn from each other to improve our sport. The open summit will host influential speakers, awards, and, of course, plenty of laughter—a time for sharing and celebrating our beloved sport.”
Marking its 12th anniversary, the event is generating considerable excitement as it honors the inductees and Special Award Recipients for 2025. The induction ceremony, a hallmark of any Hall of Fame weekend, will showcase this year’s distinguished honorees, which includes an impressive roster of inductees.
Among the inductees are lightweight Yvonne Barkley, flyweights Jolene Blackshear and Yvonne Caples, junior bantamweight Yessica Chavez from Mexico, cruiserweight Carlette Ewell, promoter Diane Fischer, and numerous others—including famed promoter Don King and world champion Frida Wallberg. This year’s lineup also honors individuals who have significantly contributed to the sport’s growth and recognition.
MaxBoxing recently spoke with author Malissa Smith, who released the book “The Promise of Women’s Boxing – A Momentous New Era for the Sweet Science.” Smith, an influential advocate for female fighters, expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event, stating, “We are thrilled to celebrate our 12th anniversary with the Night of the Stars II, honoring special award recipients and our 2025 inductees, including the incredible contributions of women in law enforcement who box.”
According to Smith, the main event at the Mardi Gras Ballroom will be highlighted by boxing announcer Jake Guttierez, who will present the special award recipients, while she will introduce the 2025 inductees, bringing the evening to a close.
In a sentiment echoed year after year, Smith shared, “I cherish the moments spent with the sisterhood of women’s boxing, celebrating the achievements of women in the sport while fostering encouragement for current and future fighters. This celebration underscores the legacy of female boxers and acknowledges the progress made, while also recognizing the challenges that lie ahead. I remain passionately dedicated to advancing equity within the sport.” Smith will also hold a book signing at the event.
The International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame continuously strives to honor those who are devoted to uplifting the sport. The upcoming two-day celebration at the Orleans Hotel promises to be another remarkable event.
