Both Han & Holm come full circle after 10 year hiatus's

WBA Light Champion Stephanie Han and former multi-champion Holly Holm both took breaks from boxing for various reasons. They have now returned to the sport and are set to face each other on Saturday in Puerto Rico, with Han's title at stake.

Han returned to the ring after being requested by trainer Louie Burke, who was then preparing Han's sister, Jennifer, for a title fight against the reigning pound-for-pound champion, Katie Taylor, in 2021.

Trainer Burke stated, "Jennifer didn't have adequate sparring to prepare for Taylor, so I asked Stephanie if she could assist her sister."

Han, a national champion and top-ranked amateur, felt somewhat burnt out and also wanted to begin her family and her career as an El Paso Police officer.

With two children, including a daughter with special needs, Han chose to assist her sister and train. During this time, Burke asked Han if she wanted to make one final return to boxing after a 10-year hiatus, as Burke believed she still had a lot of talent.

The outcome was an 11-fight winning streak and securing the WBA lightweight championship in February 2025.

Holm paused her boxing career for a decade to focus on a new path in MMA. With a boxing record of 34-2-2, she shocked the MMA world in 2015 by defeating the women's champion Ronda Rousey and securing the MMA world title.

Holm felt compelled to return to boxing, targeting the one title she hadn't yet claimed in her career: the 135 crown. She made her comeback to the ring, securing a 10-round decision victory over Yolanda Vega this past June, paving the way for a title shot against Han this Saturday.

Even though Han is the champion, both Han and Burke understand they might be considered the B-side in this fight because of Holm's popularity.

Burke stated, "I believe it's up to us to impress the judges in every round. If it's a close call, I think they'll favor Holly."

Burke referenced a recent article discussing Holm facing Katie Taylor following the Han fight.

They seem to feel we won't win and already setting up Taylor Holm in the future."

Han believes Holm deserves all the recognition and views her as a key figure who contributed to elevating women's boxing to its current status.

"Holly has earned everything she deserves, but I intend to keep my belt," said Han.

Team Han feels no pressure facing Holm. "There's no pressure on me. I'm seen as the underdog, and that's fine. I know we've prepared thoroughly, and we're ready to deliver our best performance."

At 44, Holm remains the competitor, still aiming to achieve one final goal, winning the Lightweight boxing title.

"It's the one title I haven't won in boxing, and at this point in my career, it's a goal for me," Holm mentioned in a recent interview with Felix Chavez from the El Paso Times. "I realize I need to be at my best because Stephanie has considerable experience in kickboxing and martial arts."

The two have put excitement in the southwest area and boxing, I-95 vs I-25 rivalry continues Saturday.

Holm vs Han can be seen on DAZN Saturday evening.