Ferreira takes unanimous points win over Nonina

Kibler Park boxer Bernice ‘The Badger’ Ferreira made waves in the boxing world by defeating the experienced Bukiwe ‘Anaconda’ Nonina at the Aquila Boxing Promotions tournament, The Storm, in Sandton on March 15.

The fight at the Galleria Venue was the only female bout at the event and was broadcast live on Supersport.
With only six professional fights, Ferreira took on Nonina, who has 26 fights and is considered one of SA’s most decorated female boxers.

Despite the experience gap, Ferreira won via a unanimous points decision after six intense rounds in the junior lightweight division.

A confident challenger

Ferreira entered the ring with a clear mind and a strong belief in her abilities.

“I felt good, confident in my skills and the team behind me. I was excited to test myself against a more experienced opponent and see if I had what it takes to win,” she said.

Her strategy was well thought-out and focused on countering Nonina’s style.

“I knew she would hold me or run away, or both. So, I planned to cut the ring to prevent her from running, and if she held, I would keep working on the inside,” Ferreira explained.

Indeed, she executed the plan perfectly, using her agility and technique to neutralise her opponent’s attempts to control the fight.

Overcoming frustration in the ring

Though Ferreira didn’t feel particularly challenged in the fight, Nonina’s tactics did frustrate her.

“She kept holding, making it difficult for me to land clean punches. But I stuck to our game plan and kept working as hard as I could when she was holding,” Ferreira said.

Her resilience paid off because she dominated the latter tounds, especially after taking a few unnecessary shots in round two.

“In rounds three and four, I worked more from range, establishing my jab and asserting control. In rounds five and six, I returned to the original game plan, focusing on pounding the body as she continued to hold,” Ferreira recalled.

A career-defining victory

The win was a significant milestone in Ferreira’s career.

“This is a big victory for me,” she said, acknowledging the experience gap between her and Nonina.

“Bukiwe has more experience – 26 fights – and is a former champion. Hopefully, this win brings me closer to my dream of becoming a WBC world champion.”

Her discipline, determination and dedication have been key to her success.

“Success is a team effort. You are only as good as the team you’re surrounded by. And a lot of self-belief – you must believe you will win,” Ferreira added.

The road ahead

Looking forward, Ferreira has already set her sights on bigger goals.

“My manager, Colleen McAusland, is negotiating for me to challenge Nosipho Bell for the SA title next month,” Ferreira shared.

“My job is to train and deliver; my manager and coach take care of the rest.”

As Ferreira continues to rise through the ranks, she remains committed to her ultimate goal, “The end goal is to be a WBC world champion,” she reiterated.

Inspiring the next generation

In addition to her accomplishments, Ferreira is passionate about promoting female boxing in SA.

As the only female fighter at ‘The Storm,’ she felt proud and responsible.

“It felt great to represent women in boxing on such a big platform. I’m honoured to have fought on Kevin Lerena’s first promotion and hope to see more female bouts in every tournament. Female boxers need more exposure and equal opportunities in the sport,” Ferreira said.

Her message to girls aspiring to follow in her footsteps is simple but powerful, “Believe in yourself, choose your friends wisely, stay away from drugs and put in extra work. Boxing is great for your mental health, confidence and discipline.”

With her sights set on more titles and a growing reputation, Ferreira is undoubtedly a name to watch in SA boxing.