Laura Saperstein is calling on the support of the Jewish community as she prepares to defend her unbeaten record in her seventh professional fight on Sunday.
Saperstein, 37, who returned from nine months in Thailand in February, goes up against Welsh rising star Lana Cooper in what is expected to be an exciting and intense four-round battle at the York Hall in Bethnal Green.
“It would be a major boost for me and the sport if I can get the support from the Jewish community,” Saperstein said. “I want to show the promoters and people like Frank Maloney, who didn’t believe in me, that we can make female boxing a successful and popular sport.
“I know it doesn’t help that the date of the fight lands on Mother’s Day, but I hope I can get as much support from everyone out there.”
Saperstein admits that she has struggled to prepare and almost pulled out of the fight after suffering from jet-lag and illness on her return from the Far East. “In terms of preparation, it has been very difficult for me after only having a short time.
“Having only been back in the UK four weeks, I’m exhausted. It’s been very tough for me to prepare myself physically and mentally in the circumstances.”
The bout will be her first under new boxing promoter Miranda Carter. “I’m particularly thrilled that Miranda’s shows are on Sunday afternoons. The fact I’m not going to be boxing on a Friday night this time means my Jewish supporters will be able to come along.
“I’ve designed a special new outfit for the fight that says something about all the different aspects of my heritage which will be a British themed outfit with a red Star of David.”