British double Olympic taekwondo champion Jade Jones announced on Friday that she had decided to transition from taekwondo to pursue a career as a professional boxer.
Jones, aged 31, who won gold medals at the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, revealed her decision to shift to boxing during an emotional statement.
She confirmed that former British and Commonwealth champion Stephen Smith would be her trainer in Liverpool.
“Taekwondo has given me everything – an incredible journey, unforgettable memories, and the honour of representing my country on the biggest stage,” Jones said. “I’ve given everything to taekwondo and I’m now ready for a new challenge. Boxing has always fascinated me, and I’m excited to test myself in a completely different arena.”
At just 19, Jones claimed gold in the -57kg category at the London Olympics and repeated her success four years later in Rio.
She went on to secure her first world title in Manchester in 2019, cementing her place as one of the sport’s greatest athletes.
However, her journey toward her fourth Olympics in Paris last year was marred by controversy following a missed drug test in December 2023.
Jones avoided a ban after UK Anti-Doping ruled that she had committed a no-fault violation for medical reasons.
Despite this setback, she was eliminated in the first round at the Paris Games.
Smith, who is set to guide her boxing career, expressed confidence in Jones’ ability to excel in her new discipline.
“Jade is a born fighter – she’s proven that time and time again in taekwondo,” Smith said.
“Her athleticism, dedication, and winning mentality are second to none. It’s an honour to be working with her, and I have no doubt she has what it takes to make a serious impact in boxing.”
