Norfolk’s Emma Dolan says “it doesn’t feel real” that she will have her first world title fight on Youtuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul’s debut London promotion.
The 27-year-old will challenge IBF super-flyweight champion Irma Garcia on a women’s super-card led by Caroline Dubois, Chantelle Cameron and Ellie Scotney.
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It will take place at London Olympia on 5 April and Dolan told BBC Radio Norfolk: “Just being among those amazing women is like ‘Wow!’
She said: “Everybody is making history that night, Chantelle is fighting over three-minute rounds which is fantastic for women’s boxing, Ellie Scotney is looking to go undisputed and you’ve got Caroline against Terri (Harper) which is a fantastic fight.”
The unbeaten British and Commonwealth champion will be having only her ninth professional fight against a vastly more experienced Mexican opponent, who has a 25-5 record, with one draw.
Emma Dolan won the vacant British title by outpointing Shannon Ryan in June 2024 [Getty Images]
Garcia, who is 17 years her senior, has won her last four contests but has never fought in Britain before.
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“Experience is key but I’m the best I’ve ever been, looking really good in the gym, I’ve just been sparring with a two-time Olympian [Giordana Sorrentino] and I really believe it’s my time. I’m looking forward to proving that,” said Dolan.
“It’s such a cool venue. I’m buzzing to be boxing there.”
Norfolk has not had a world champion since Herbie Hide stopped American Michael Bentt in seven rounds at Millwall’s Den stadium 32 years ago.
“The first ever female world champion from Norfolk, that’s crazy, isn’t it – it’s mad. I’m going to do it, I’m going to bring the belt back and then we’re all going to have a big party,” Dolan said.
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And how will she feel if she hears “and the new world champion is” spoken by the ring announcer after the final bell?
“It will be very emotional for me, I get emotional just thinking about it,” she added.
“It’s going to be a really big night. I’ve got to train really hard, as I always do and I’m sure I’ll be hearing those words.”
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