Perth boxer Erin "The Blueprint" McGowan is stepping into the ring for what is arguably the biggest female bout in Australian boxing history.
She will compete against Arlene "Anger Fist" Blencowe for the WIBA lightweight world title this Friday night at the WA Italian Club.
Both are former world champions; McGowan won the WBO lightweight belt and Blencowe the WIBA world light welterweight title.
"I know this is going to be a great, tough fight ... Arlene is physically bigger and stronger than me, but I have to box smart. I have had a great preparation for this world title," McGowan said.
The West Australian is coming off two dominating performances, including her last fight, which ended with a devastating knockout win in the second round over Thai Keanpetch Superchamps, who only six weeks earlier went eight rounds with current WBA super featherweight world champion Hyun-Mi Choi, from South Korea.
McGowan and Blencowe are both fighting at different weights for this bout, with the former moving up a division and the latter down.
Blencowe, from NSW, has limited her food and beverage intake and spent a lot of time in the sauna ahead of weigh-in.
"If she has had to cut a lot of weight, then usually that definitely plays a big role in how well you can perform over a 10-round fight," McGowan said.
"Her being my opponent, I hope she does cut weight pretty hard."
This Friday will be the third world title bout for Blencowe and she is thankful for the opportunity.
"A lot of fighters will go their whole career without a world title opportunity," Blencowe said.
"I'm lucky that this is my third. Erin is a very respected female fighter in Australia and I feel privileged to not only just fight her, but fight her for a world title on our home soil."
McGowan admitted Friday would be tough, but said she would not give up without a fight.
"I've put in the hard yards for the past couple of months, training and preparing for this fight," she said.
"So with all the blood, sweat and tears that have gone into the gym, I have very high expectations for me to perform at my best."
For more information visit the WA Italian Club website.
