A Puerto Rican Powerhouse
Amanda Serrano, affectionately known as “The Real Deal,” has become a formidable force in the world of combat sports. Born in Carolina, Puerto Rico, and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Serrano’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a multi-division world champion is nothing short of inspiring. Her relentless drive, exceptional skill set, and unwavering dedication have solidified her place among the elite in boxing and mixed martial arts.
Early Life and Introduction to Boxing
Growing up in Brooklyn, Amanda Serrano was introduced to boxing at a young age, inspired by her older sister, Cindy Serrano, who was also a professional boxer. Amanda’s passion for the sport quickly became evident as she immersed herself in rigorous training and competitions. Her early experiences in the gym laid the foundation for a career that would eventually see her break records and shatter glass ceilings in the boxing world.
Rise Through the Ranks
Amanda Serrano turned professional in 2009, and her ascent through the boxing ranks was meteoric. She captured her first world title in 2011 by winning the IBF super featherweight championship. This victory marked the beginning of a remarkable journey to see her claim world titles across seven different weight divisions, a feat recognized by Guinness World Records. Her ability to adapt and excel in multiple weight classes showcased her versatility and determination to dominate the sport.
Dominance in Multiple Weight Classes
Serrano’s dominance in the ring is unparalleled. She has held major world titles in seven weight divisions, ranging from super flyweight to light Amanda Serrano. Her aggressive fighting style, combined with technical prowess, has made her a formidable opponent for anyone stepping into the ring with her. Notably, she became the first Puerto Rican, male or female, to win world titles in more than four weight classes, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest boxers of her generation.
Historic Bouts and Rivalries
One of the most significant moments in Amanda Serrano’s career came in April 2022 when she faced Katie Taylor at Madison Square Garden. This bout was historic, as it was the first women’s boxing match to headline the iconic venue. The fight lived up to the hype, with both fighters showcasing their skills and determination. Although Serrano lost by a narrow split decision, the match was hailed as one of the greatest in women’s boxing history, earning the 2022 Fight of the Year award from Sports Illustrated.
The rivalry between Serrano and Taylor continued, with a rematch taking place in November 2024. Despite another close decision loss, Serrano’s performance further solidified her status as a top-tier fighter. The trilogy bout, scheduled for July 2025 at Madison Square Garden, promises to be another epic chapter in their storied rivalry.
Advocacy for Women’s Boxing
Beyond her accomplishments in the ring, Amanda Serrano has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in boxing. She has consistently pushed for equal pay and opportunities for female fighters. In a bold move, Serrano vacated her WBC featherweight title in December 2023 to protest the organization’s refusal to sanction 12 three-minute rounds for women’s bouts, a standard format in men’s boxing. Her stance highlighted the ongoing disparities in the sport and underscored her commitment to driving change.
Partnership with Most Valuable Promotions
Amanda Serrano’s partnership with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) has been instrumental in elevating her career and profile. Since signing with MVP in 2021, Serrano has headlined major events and achieved significant financial success, becoming one of the highest-paid female boxers in history. In March 2025, she signed a lifetime agreement with MVP, ensuring her continued involvement in the sport beyond her active fighting career. As chairwoman of MVP’s women’s boxing initiatives, Serrano is poised to mentor and develop the next generation of female fighters.
Transition to Mixed Martial Arts
Amanda Serrano’s combat sports journey extends beyond boxing. She has also ventured into mixed martial arts (MMA), compiling an undefeated record of 2-0-1. Her transition to MMA showcases her versatility and willingness to challenge herself in new arenas. In 2023, Serrano signed with the Professional Fighters League (PFL), joining their PPV Super Fight Division alongside notable fighters like Francis Ngannou and Kayla Harrison. Her involvement in MMA further demonstrates her commitment to expanding her legacy across multiple combat sports disciplines.
Legacy and Impact
Amanda Serrano’s impact on combat sports is profound. Her achievements have inspired countless aspiring fighters, particularly women, to pursue their dreams in boxing and MMA. Her relentless pursuit of excellence, both in and out of the ring, has paved the way for greater recognition and opportunities for female athletes. As she continues to break barriers and set new standards, Serrano’s legacy as a trailblazer and champion remains firmly intact.
Conclusion
Amanda Serrano’s journey from a young girl in Brooklyn to a multi-division world champion is a testament to her unwavering determination, skill, and passion for combat sports. Her contributions to boxing and MMA have not only elevated her career but have also opened doors for future generations of female fighters. As she prepares for the next chapter in her storied career, including the highly anticipated trilogy bout with Katie Taylor, the world watches with admiration and anticipation for what “The Real Deal” will accomplish next.
