Can a Christian be a boxer? Fran Hennessy is making the case

Writer Emma Lindsey reflects on the rise of British boxing star Francesca Hennessy and the role faith plays in her journey to the top of the sport. As the undefeated champion continues to make headlines, Emma explores whether Christian belief and a sport built on combat can comfortably coexist.

When Britain’s Francesca “Fran” Hennessy beat Italy’s Aurora De Persio at Wembley Arena recently, in defence of her WBC Silver Bantamweight title, televised live on the BBC, I marvelled at her style, and I don’t mean her pink satin tracksuit.

Her assault on De Persio was as methodical and precise as it was vicious. I perched on the edge of the sofa while the daughter of boxing promoter Mick Hennessy powered through the gears, doling out hooks, uppercuts and jabs at a jaw-dropping rate, until midway through the sixth round the fight was stopped on a TKO to huge cheers, including mine.

But as impressive as that fight was – her ninth undefeated bout – it was the ‘Billion Dollar Babe’s’ post-fight interview that really caught my attention.

After crossing herself in the ring as she held up her WBC belt, the first words out of her mouth were: “First of all, all glory to God,” which she followed with, “I’m truly blessed…” several times during the course of the ringside interview.