Former UFC bantamweight champion Holly Holm is set to make a significant return to the boxing ring, stepping away from MMA for an eagerly anticipated bout. The matchup will take place on the card of the June 28 showdown between Jake Paul and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., organized by Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. In this ten-round lightweight contest featuring two-minute rounds, Holm will face Yolanda Vega. This marks Holm's first in-ring appearance in over a decade and represents a new chapter in her storied career. Holm expressed excitement about partnering with Most Valuable Promotions and returning to her roots in boxing, where she previously held titles in three higher weight classes.
Holm, who retired from professional boxing in 2013, has long been celebrated as one of the best female boxers of all time. During her illustrious boxing career from 2002 to 2013, she amassed an impressive record of 33-2-3 (9 KOs) and has since been inducted into multiple boxing Halls of Fame. At the age of 43, Holm made her last MMA appearance at UFC 300 in April 2024, where she suffered a loss to Kayla Harrison via rear-naked choke in the second round. Following this defeat, Holm parted ways amicably with the UFC earlier this year.
Prior to her return to boxing, Holm contemplated continuing her MMA journey with the Global Fight League. However, the cancellation of the league's debut event led her to reconsider her options. Known for her stunning upset victory over Ronda Rousey in 2015, Holm remains a legendary figure in both boxing and MMA circles. Earlier this year, she revealed that boxing still felt like an "unfinished business" chapter in her career. She expressed a desire to compete in high-profile fights and make a statement in the sport, particularly given the increased exposure women's boxing enjoys today.
Vega, a formidable opponent at 29 years old, boasts an undefeated record across ten professional matches. Her most recent triumph came in September when she secured a unanimous decision against Rocio Dominguez. The highly anticipated Paul vs. Chavez Jr. event will take place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. With live coverage on Netflix, the evening promises to showcase an array of women's boxing champions, further elevating the profile of the sport.
Beyond just a comeback, Holm's return signifies a broader narrative of legacy and impact in the world of women's boxing. As she steps back into the ring, fans worldwide anticipate witnessing another defining moment in her illustrious career. This matchup not only highlights Holm's enduring passion for boxing but also underscores her role in advancing the visibility and recognition of women in the sport.