TERRI Harper retained her WBO lightweight title with a unanimous decision win over a game but outclassed challenger Natalie Zimmermann. Boxing in the headliner at Doncaster’s Eco-Power Stadium, ‘Belter’ Harper was a couple of levels above a raw, novice-like female foe.
Judges John Latham, Diana Drews Milani and Mikael Hook combined to rubber-stamp Harper’s homecoming success, scoring it 99-91 across the board. While former kickboxer Zimmermann did not lack in heart and guts, the skills were minimal, and her square-on stance led to multiple opportunities for Harper to land flush.
Zimmermann landed a right hand of her own in the third round that reminded Harper to keep her hands tight. Harper suffered a nose injury that appeared to be bothering her. The German visitor was unafraid to bullrush inside to make her presence felt. Referee Steve Gray kept a close eye as they frequently bumped into one another.
Harper sent the 42-year-old back on jelly legs from a fourth-round combination. To her credit, the overmatched away woman remained a nuisance. Much of the corner’s work was to keep Harper focused and on point as she grew ever frustrated at not being able to put Natalie away.
Harper received a warning from Mr Gray in round eight for head use. Zimmermann shook off a body shot in the same round as Terri moved to a different attack region. A left hook had Zimmermann stumbling at the round’s conclusion. The bell came at the right time for the flagging challenger.
In round nine, blood dribbled from Zimmermann’s nose as she sluggishly walked back to her corner for a final assault. Zimmermann suffered a horrible cut above her right eye in the 10th and final round from a headclash.
Even Harper emerged from the exchange with blood smeared across her mouth and cheeks as they boxed to a horror movie ending. Terri Harper improved to 16-2-2 (6 KOs) while Natalie Zimmermann suffered her first career defeat, falling to 13-1 (3 KOs).
“A very special night for me,” admitted Harper. “She’s tough, took some big shots later on. Once I let the nerves settle down and the occasion settle, I found my way into the fight a bit more comfortable.”
