Ramla Ali captures world titles in contentious split decision
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 9, 2026, 6:20 AM
Last updated Nov 9, 2026

Ramla Ali became a world champion for the first time on November 8 in Arlington, Texas, winning a split decision over Mikiah Kreps. The 36-year-old boxer claimed the vacant WBO and IBF women’s junior featherweight titles after a fight where Kreps appeared to control much of the action. Ali's victory marks her second attempt at a world championship, adding to her significant journey from fleeing Somalia to Olympic representation. The controversial nature of the decision is prompting discussions on judging standards in boxing.
- •Ramla Ali wins vacant WBO and IBF titles.
- •Controversial split decision over Mikiah Kreps.
- •Fight took place at College Park Center in Texas.
- •Ali is the first Somali boxer to compete at the Olympics.
- •This win is Ali's second attempt at a world title.
- 6:20 AMThe Guardian Sport — Ramla Ali wins first world titles at 36 with highly controversial split decision
"British-Somali boxer claims first world titles in Texas Kreps outlands Ali but loses disputed split decision Baumgardner wins 135lb belt as Dubois feud heats up British-Somali boxer Ramla Ali became a world champion for the first time at the age of 36 on Sunday night after winning a highly controversial 10-round split decision over former sparring partner Mikiah Kreps to claim the vacant WBO and IBF women’s junior featherweight titles in Arlington, Texas. Ali, who grew up in east London after fleeing Somalia’s civil war with her family and went on to become the first boxer to represent the African country at the Olympics, completed her remarkable journey to the top of the 122lb division at College Park Center on her second attempt at a world championship – but only after a verdict rewarding her for a fight that appeared to be largely controlled by her opponent. Continue reading...
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