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Stephanie Han to Defend WBA Lightweight Title Against Holly Holm in El Paso
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Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, December 30th 2025 at 10:56 GMT by El Paso Times- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
- 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source
El Paso's Own "The Storm" Han to Face Legendary Holly Holm in Title Defense Bout
El Paso is buzzing with anticipation as local boxing sensation Stephanie “The Storm” Han prepares to defend her WBA Lightweight World Championship against the formidable Holly Holm on February 17th at the UTEP Don Haskins Center. The fight, announced just before New Year's Day, represents a significant moment for Han’s career and a major boost for the boxing scene in El Paso. The bout promises to be a compelling clash of styles: Han, a rising star known for her aggressive pressure fighting, against Holm, a veteran with a decorated mixed martial arts background and a reputation for calculated striking power.
Stephanie Han (18-2, 10 KOs), the 27-year-old El Paso native, claimed the WBA Lightweight title in a stunning upset victory over previously undefeated Vanessa Guerrero last June. That fight, held at the same venue, saw Han overcome early adversity to score a late knockout, electrifying the local crowd and establishing her as a force to be reckoned with in the division. Her journey to becoming a world champion hasn't been without its challenges; prior to the Guerrero victory, she suffered two losses, one by decision against Christina Lin and another via technical knockout against Mary McGee (as detailed in earlier El Paso Times reports). However, Han has consistently demonstrated resilience and an unwavering commitment to improving her craft. She’s described as a fighter who thrives on connecting with her hometown fans and whose training regimen, overseen by her father and trainer, focuses on relentless conditioning and strategic aggression.
The opponent she faces, Holly Holm (15-6, 9 KOs), is arguably the biggest name Han has faced to date. Holm’s career transcends boxing; she's a former UFC champion known for her iconic head kick knockout of Ronda Rousey in one of the most memorable moments in MMA history. While Holm transitioned to professional boxing relatively later in her career, she brings an unparalleled level of experience and strategic acumen into the ring. Her record shows a fighter who has faced top-tier opposition across both disciplines, demonstrating remarkable adaptability and durability. Although Holm’s recent boxing record hasn't been as dominant as her MMA peak – she is coming off a loss to Katie Taylor in 2023 - she remains a dangerous opponent with the potential to exploit any weakness. The article highlights that Holm has publicly expressed respect for Han, acknowledging her power and the challenge she presents.
The UTEP Don Haskins Center holds particular significance for both fighters. For Han, it’s home turf, guaranteeing an overwhelmingly supportive crowd eager to witness their local champion in action. The atmosphere at previous Han fights there has been electric, fueling her performance and creating a memorable experience for fans. For Holm, the arena represents another opportunity to prove herself on a new stage and connect with a passionate boxing audience.
Promoter Golden Boy Promotions is handling the event, further elevating its profile and ensuring wider exposure for both fighters. The fight card will also feature several undercard bouts showcasing other up-and-coming boxers from the region, making it a full evening of exciting action for fans. Ticket sales are already strong, reflecting the anticipation surrounding the main event and the desire to see Han continue her reign as champion.
Beyond the immediate excitement of the fight itself, this bout carries significant implications for Stephanie Han’s career trajectory. A victory against Holly Holm would solidify her position as a top lightweight contender and open doors to even bigger opportunities, potentially including unification bouts with other titleholders. It's also a chance for El Paso to further establish itself as a growing hub for professional boxing.
The article quotes Han expressing her excitement about the challenge ahead, emphasizing her dedication to training and her desire to put on an unforgettable performance for her fans. She understands the magnitude of facing a legend like Holm but remains confident in her abilities and focused on retaining her title. Holm, in turn, has spoken about approaching the fight with respect and determination, viewing it as another opportunity to test herself against elite competition.
Ultimately, the Stephanie Han vs. Holly Holm bout promises a compelling narrative – a local champion defending her hard-earned title against a legendary competitor known for her grit and skill. El Paso boxing fans are bracing themselves for an unforgettable night of action at the UTEP Don Haskins Center on February 17th. The fight is more than just a championship defense; it's a testament to Han’s perseverance, a showcase for El Paso’s growing boxing scene, and a chance to witness two exceptional athletes compete at the highest level.
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Read the Full El Paso Times Article at:
[ https://www.elpasotimes.com/story/sports/boxing/2025/12/30/el-pasos-stephanie-han-to-make-defense-of-wba-lightweight-title-against-holly-holm/87752729007/ ]
