Jade Jones, the double Olympic taekwondo champion from Wales, made a surprising decision to switch sports and take up boxing at the age of 31. She has set her sights on becoming a two-sport world champion by venturing into the world of boxing. With just two months of experience in boxing, Jones is training with former professional boxer Stephen Smith, aiming to make a mark in the paid ranks and achieve her ambitious goals.
The transition from taekwondo to boxing for Jones has been met with mixed reactions, as she acknowledges the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead. Despite the initial doubts from her family and skepticism from others, Jones is driven by her passion for combat and the thrill of embarking on a new and exciting challenge. She is determined to share her journey, encompassing the highs and lows, as she strives to reach the pinnacle of success in both sports and fulfill her dream of becoming a world champion.
Embracing the complexities of boxing, Jones recognizes the technical nuances and strategic approach required to excel in the sport. Contrary to her expectations, she quickly learns that boxing is not just about raw power and endurance, but also about precision, timing, and tactical maneuvers. Jones humbly acknowledges the steep learning curve ahead of her and the stark differences between the worlds of taekwondo and boxing, emphasizing the importance of strategy and finesse in her new endeavor.
As one of Wales’ most decorated Olympians, Jones reflects on her illustrious career in taekwondo, marked by two Olympic gold medals, a World Championship title, and numerous other accolades. Despite the bittersweet emotions of bidding farewell to her beloved sport, Jones is invigorated by the fresh challenges and opportunities that boxing presents. With unwavering determination and a resilient spirit, she embarks on a new chapter in her athletic journey, eager to test her mettle against the best in the world and carve out a legacy as a two-sport world champion
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