CHAMPION OF CHANGE: Skye Nicolson is fighting for more than titles

CHAMPION OF CHANGE: Skye Nicolson is fighting for more than titles

BY EVERLAST
10 minute read

To celebrate International Women's Day, we sat down with Australian Boxing World Champion Skye Nicolson to discuss the challenges she's overcome, the progress she's seen, and the future she envisions for the sport she loves.

Growing up in Australia, Skye was immersed in the world of boxing. Her late brother, Jamie, was one of the country's most celebrated amateur fighters, and his legacy sparked her passion for the sport. However, from the moment she first laced up a pair of gloves, Skye realized that the fight for recognition would be as tough as any bout in the ring. Fortunately, the Australian southpaw isn't one to back down, and the stigma that often comes with female fighters quickly became fuel – fuel to prove the doubters wrong and show the world she belonged in a sport where female boxers were few and far between.

Now a Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Olympian, and world champion with an undefeated record, the 29-year-old is establishing herself as one of the best in the sport. But Skye isn't just fighting for herself – she's fighting for the future of women's boxing too, demanding equality, visibility, and greater opportunities for women in the sport. She's committed to ensuring the next generation faces fewer obstacles than she did. In honor of International Women's Day, we caught up with Skye to discuss her journey, the progress in the sport, and her vision for its future.

Everlast: When you were growing up, boxing wasn't really something girls or young women even considered. What made you get into the sport in the first place?
Skye: Boxing was always a part of my world growing up. My brother, Jamie, was one of the best amateur boxers Australia has ever had, and hearing about his incredible career and all his achievements really inspired me. But to be honest, as a young girl, the main reason I got into boxing was to build my confidence more than anything else. As simple as that.

Everlast: As a female boxer, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced, both inside and outside the ring?
Skye: The biggest challenge was just to be taken seriously. People often told me things like, 'you're too pretty to fight' or 'girls shouldn't box.' It was tough at first, but it also shaped me into the fighter I am today because I wanted to prove people wrong. The great thing is, that stigma is changing, and I like to think I've played a part in making that happen!

Everlast: Picking up on this, how do you feel about the growing representation of women in boxing?
Skye: It's amazing to see so many young girls getting into boxing! The sport has definitely come a long way, and it's clear that it's growing and moving in the right direction. That said, there's still a lot of work to be done when it comes to equality and opportunities.

Everlast: How can we encourage more young girls and women to pursue boxing despite societal pressures or limitations?
Skye: More and more girls are getting involved, which means they can now walk into a boxing club and not be the only girl – and that's a huge step forward. To keep that momentum going, we just need more girls to try it, give it a shot, and believe in themselves. The key to making that happen is creating an environment where they feel welcome – and it only works if the club is supportive, inclusive, and encouraging.

Everlast: Looking ahead, where do you see women's boxing in the next 5-10 years, and what improvements would you like to see?
Skye: I really see women's boxing growing and inspiring younger generations. I just hope we keep closing the gap when it comes to equality and opportunities. It'd be amazing to see more women headlining shows, with fans getting behind them and giving them the support they deserve. That's the only way we'll be able to keep growing participation and create more opportunities.

Everlast: What advice would you give to young women interested in pursuing a career in boxing?
Skye: I'd say: work hard, chase your dreams, no matter how big they seem. You also need to stay consistent, and make sure you've got good people around you – people who genuinely want to see you win and want the best for you. Surround yourself with that kind of energy, and you'll go far.

On Saturday, March 22nd, 2025, Skye will face Tiara Brown on home turf, defending her undefeated record inside the ring. Outside of it, she'll continue her fight to prove that women belong in the sport, on the main stage, and in the conversation. Make sure to tune in, because it promises to be another exciting chapter in her journey – and another step forward for women's boxing.

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