A significant Ebanie Bridges news update has emerged from the world of boxing, showcasing a surprising turn in one of the sport’s most intense rivalries. Following her recent comeback defeat in Puerto Rico, the ‘Blonde Bomber’ received an unexpected message of support from her former adversary, Shannon Courtenay. This gesture signals a potential shift from past animosity to an unforeseen display of sportsmanship, capturing the attention of fans and pundits alike. The boxing community is abuzz with speculation on what this surprising development could mean for both fighters’ futures and for women’s boxing as a whole.
Their rivalry dates back to April 2021, a bout that saw Bridges suffer her first professional loss and a gruesome eye injury at the hands of Courtenay. Ahead of that fight, the atmosphere was charged, primarily fueled by Bridges’ distinctive lingerie weigh-ins. Courtenay was notably critical of these tactics, arguing they detracted from the integrity of women’s boxing and the hard work of pioneers like Katie Taylor. This stark difference in philosophy created a compelling narrative that captivated audiences far beyond the traditional boxing fanbase.
Shannon Courtenay, then a rising star, publicly stated her desire to attract viewers for what she considered the ‘correct reasons’ – showcasing skill, dedication, and hard work. She emphasized the importance of being a role model for younger generations, including her own 14-year-old sister, and expressed concern that ‘flaunting your body’ might overshadow the athletic prowess of female boxers. This stance highlighted a broader debate within the sport about marketing and public perception, making their initial clash more than just a fight; it was a clash of ideologies.
The infamous 2021 encounter at the Copper Box Arena in London was a brutal affair, leaving Ebanie Bridges with a severely swollen and discolored left eye. Despite the injury, Bridges fought with immense heart, but Courtenay ultimately secured a unanimous decision victory, claiming the vacant WBA female bantamweight title. This fight cemented their rivalry in the annals of women’s boxing, with many believing the animosity between the two was irreparable, making the recent turn of events even more astonishing.
What is the significance of Ebanie Bridges’ lingerie weigh-ins? The answer is that Ebanie Bridges utilized lingerie weigh-ins to draw more attention to women’s boxing, aiming to increase viewership and demonstrate that diverse personalities can succeed in the sport. This approach sparked considerable debate within the boxing community regarding its impact on the sport’s image.
In a surprising display of sportsmanship, Shannon Courtenay took to Instagram after Bridges’ recent loss to Alexis Araiza Mones. Courtenay wrote, “People don’t realise how hard it is to have years away from boxing & comeback the same as before! Ebanie Bridges hold your head high girl there’s no shame in losing your first fight back after having time out, the same happened to me but you just gotta get straight back in.” This message resonated deeply, offering genuine empathy rather than gloating.
Bridges, clearly moved by the unexpected support, reposted Courtenay’s message on her own Instagram story, adding, “Thank you Shanny sounds like a good plan to me x.” She playfully followed up with a meme from ‘Step Brothers,’ suggesting, ‘Did we just become best friends,’ indicating a profound shift in their relationship. This exchange has ignited hopes for an Ebanie Bridges vs Shannon Courtenay rematch, a fight that would now carry an entirely new layer of respect and narrative depth.
Courtenay’s path has not been without its own challenges. After winning the title from Bridges, she faced setbacks, including an injury postponement and failing to make weight for a subsequent title defense, leading to her being stripped of the belt. She then took almost two years off, from December 2022 to October 2024, before rebuilding her career. Signing with Jake Paul’s MVP in July 2025, the same promotion as Bridges, Courtenay recently secured a win against Jessica Radtke Maltez, demonstrating her own resilience and comeback spirit.
The evolving landscape of women’s boxing continues to draw more participants and viewers, highlighting questions like how to start women’s boxing and the disparities in women’s boxing vs men’s boxing pay. Fighters like Bridges and Courtenay, through their captivating stories and willingness to challenge norms, contribute significantly to the sport’s visibility. Their journeys inspire many, from aspiring athletes looking for the best women’s boxing gloves for beginners to seasoned fans seeking compelling narratives.
As for their individual boxing careers, an Ebanie Bridges boxing career explained in full detail would reveal a fighter who consistently overcomes obstacles and challenges perceptions. Similarly, Shannon Courtenay’s journey exemplifies perseverance. The prospect of a future rematch, perhaps even as part of the best women’s boxing fights 2026 lineup, is now a tantalizing possibility, adding another chapter to their intertwined stories. Fans will undoubtedly be following any Ebanie Bridges fight schedule 2026 announcements closely.
This surprising display of camaraderie underscores the often-unseen bonds forged in the demanding world of professional boxing. Beyond the glitz and the rivalry, there’s a shared understanding of the sacrifices and mental fortitude required. Courtenay’s gesture not only offered support but also set the stage for a potentially iconic rematch, transforming a bitter rivalry into a testament to mutual respect.
Ultimately, this Ebanie Bridges news update is a testament to the unpredictable nature of sports and the human element that makes boxing so compelling. It’s a reminder that even the fiercest competitors can find common ground and respect, opening new avenues for their careers and captivating the boxing world with an unexpected twist in a long-standing feud. The future of both fighters, and the potential for another clash, now feels more intriguing than ever.
