Local boxer reflects on hard-fought loss, and rattling hooks, at WBE56
Local boxer Hazel Hardie shared insights about her experience, her growth in the ring, and her plans for the future. Despite not securing the win, Hardie's reflective attitude showcases her resilience and passion for the sport.
After stepping out of the ring following her recent World Boxing Entertainment (WBE56) loss against Heike Herselman, local fighter Hazel Hardie grappled with various emotions.
Disappointment creased her brow as she contemplated the outcome, but, upon reflection, she felt a sense of pride in her accomplishment. “I hadn’t fought in two years before this match, and to take on a five-round battle, with only two months to train for it, I know I did great on the night.”
Hardie noted that the key factors influencing the fight’s outcome stemmed from her preparation.
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“If I had kept up with regular sparring and training after my last fight, I might have felt more confident going into the ring. I had a great coach behind me who believed in me, but I probably should have been more aggressive earlier. I let her take too much advantage of me,” she admitted when asked if there was anything she wished she had done differently, accepting responsibility for the loss without making excuses.
There were highlights though. “After the second round, my coach encouraged me to throw the combinations we had been practicing, and when I executed a couple of them, it felt amazing.”
But it was too little too late, particularly facing Herselman’s powerful hook. “Every one of them took me by surprise. I definitely should have had better head movement.”
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The experience imparted valuable lessons on the importance of consistent training. “I won’t let so much time pass without regular sparring and training again.”
Despite the disappointment from not securing the win, Hardie is proud of the progress she has made. “I feel like I grew immensely as a boxer, learning and improving in many techniques.”
Looking ahead, her short-term goal is clear: “I want to keep training.” Her long-term plans, however, remain undecided. “This was supposed to be my last fight, so, we’ll see what happens next.”
In addressing her devoted supporters and fans, Hardie expressed heartfelt gratitude. “I felt your energy in the crowd. You made my fight an enjoyable and evenly matched battle, and your support means everything to me.”
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Hardie has now taken a week off from training, to take time to care for herself both physically and mentally, but she’s gradually getting back into her routine. “I’m moving past the disappointment of the outcome,” she said, ready to rebuild.
Hardie shared a message for her opponent: “It was an honour fighting you, Heike. If you ever need a sparring partner in the future, feel free to reach out.”
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