A New Challenge for a Champion

Jade Jones, Wales' double Olympic taekwondo champion, has announced a bold career move by switching to boxing. At 31, Jones is training under former professional boxer Stephen Smith, with the goal of becoming a two-sport world champion.

Jones' transition has been met with both excitement and skepticism. "It's nerve-wracking. Some days I wake up and think 'am I absolutely crazy?'" she admitted. However, her passion for combat sports remains undeterred. "I love taekwondo, it will always be my first love. But this is an exciting challenge."

The Journey Begins

Jones has been training in boxing for two months and acknowledges the steep learning curve. "Boxing is arguably the hardest sport in the world, but I am up for the challenge," she said. The technique has been the most challenging aspect, with Jones noting, "I started wading in, but it's all about timing and being patient."

Cultural Shift and New Skills

Transitioning from taekwondo, where kicking is paramount, to boxing, which focuses on punches, has been a significant adjustment. "I've learned straight away it's not like being Rocky, you can't just get in there and blast away," Jones shared. She draws parallels between the two sports, describing boxing as a "game of chess, but with your hands."

A Legacy in Taekwondo

Jones' taekwondo career is nothing short of legendary. She became the youngest Team GB Olympic gold medallist at the 2012 London Games and successfully defended her title in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. Despite her achievements, Jones faced disappointment at the 2020 Tokyo Games, which she described as the "biggest low" of her career.

Her quest for a historic third Olympic gold medal ended in the early rounds at Paris 2024, prompting her to step away from taekwondo. "My family have been a little bit sad about me giving up taekwondo," she said. "After 20 years of using my feet, I am switching it up."

The Trainer's Perspective

Stephen Smith, Jones' boxing coach, initially questioned her decision. "My first instinct was why? Why would someone who kicks with both feet get into a sport where you use your hands?" he admitted. However, he has been impressed by Jones' determination. "It's a massive challenge, but it is made easier by her attitude... she's improving all the time."

Analysis from the Experts

According to 5 Live boxing's Steve Bunce, Jones has the potential to bridge the gap in female boxing. "Jones is an aggressive, competitive fighter in taekwondo, and she will need an old-school boxing coach to help with her transition," Bunce stated. He emphasized the importance of mastering the basics: "Too many female fighters never bother to get an education, and that is why the gulf at the top is so wide. Jones can bridge that gap."

The Road Ahead

Jones' journey will require patience and rigorous training. The British Boxing Board will not grant her a license based solely on her taekwondo achievements. She must demonstrate proficiency in boxing fundamentals, which will be a test of her adaptability and resilience.

Jones' ambition to conquer both taekwondo and boxing is an inspiring tale of determination and courage. As she embarks on this new chapter, the sports world watches with anticipation to see if she can achieve her dream of becoming a world champion in two sports.