Repeat or revenge , Han defends against Holm Saturday in El Paso

Repeat or Revenge: Stephanie Han, Holly Holm Set to Settle Unfinished Business

By Andy Rivera

Repeat or revenge?

That is the question as WBA lightweight champion Stephanie Han prepares to defend her title against Albuquerque’s own Holly Holm in a highly anticipated rematch Saturday night in El Paso.

Their first meeting in January ended in controversy and unfinished business when Han upset Holm by seventh-round technical decision in Puerto Rico after an accidental clash of heads caused a cut that stopped the fight. Han was ahead on all three scorecards, but many were left wondering what would have happened had the fight gone the distance.

Now, the rematch brings added intrigue.

For Han, it is a chance to prove the first victory was no fluke and silence doubters. For Holm, it is an opportunity for revenge and possibly one final statement in a legendary combat sports career.

At 44 years old, Holm is still chasing history, but Han’s camp believes the champion may already be facing more than just an opponent in the opposite corner.

“I think with Holly being the big name and a big fight still being talked about with Katie Taylor, I feel Stephanie is already 2-3 rounds down,” said Han trainer Louie Burke.

Burke’s comments reflect what many in boxing quietly acknowledge — Holm’s star power and the possibility of a future mega-fight with Katie Taylor could create pressure on the scorecards if the bout is close.

Han, however, is not buying into the outside noise.

The undefeated champion shocked many when she defeated Holm in January, spoiling the Albuquerque native’s attempt at another boxing title and raising questions about whether Father Time may finally be catching up to one of New Mexico’s most decorated combat athletes.

Yet Holm has never backed away from adversity.

The former multi-division boxing champion and UFC titleholder has built a Hall of Fame career on adjustments, discipline and championship grit. After the loss, Holm immediately pushed for a rematch, calling the first fight unfinished business.

For Han, the message is simple: she already won once.

Now she plans to prove it again in front of her hometown fans in ElPaso.

Saturday night, fans will finally get their answer.

Repeat or revenge?

The next chapter between Han and Holm is about to be written.