Mikaela Mayer Aims for Redemption Against Alycia Baumgardner
Mayer Targets Baumgardner’s Only Conqueror in Hopes of a Rematch
Former unified super featherweight champion Mikaela Mayer (17-1, 5 KOs) is strategically positioning herself for a rematch with her rival, Alycia Baumgardner (13-1, 7 KOs), by taking on Christina Linardatou (14-2, 6 KOs) in 2023.
Linardatou is the only fighter to have defeated Baumgardner in the professional ring, and Mayer believes a win could generate significant public demand for a rematch. Baumgardner narrowly outpointed Mayer via a split decision on the historic Shields Marshall card last year, intensifying Mayer’s drive for redemption.
Rejecting Hearn’s Initial Proposal, Mayer Chooses a More Strategic Path
Eddie Hearn presented Mayer with the option to fight highly-rated prospect Beatriz Ferreira as a stepping stone to a second fight with Baumgardner. However, Mayer dismissed this route as less advantageous and instead chose a direct challenge to Baumgardner’s past conqueror, hoping to strengthen her case for a rematch by tackling more significant and relevant competition.
Mayer vs. Linardatou: A Potential Headliner on ESPN
While no specific date or venue has been set, the matchup between Mayer and Linardatou is expected to headline a Top Rank show in the United States, broadcast on ESPN. Linardatou, a former super lightweight champion with a strong track record, including fights against Delfine Persoon and Katie Taylor, represents a formidable challenge for Mayer.
Baumgardner’s Next Steps and the Potential for a Rematch
Meanwhile, Baumgardner is preparing for an undisputed title fight against France’s Elhem Mekhaled (15-1, 3 KOs) scheduled for February 4.
Despite initially denying the possibility of a rematch with Mayer after their first bout, Hearn, Baumgardner’s promoter, has hinted at openness to the idea if it makes financial sense, describing a potential rematch as “sensational” and a fight that could headline in the United States.
Mayer’s next steps are clear: secure a victory over Linardatou to not only vindicate her previous loss but also to pressure Baumgardner into accepting a high-stakes rematch.
