STWF Sports | Dec. 11, 2025 – For the first time in more than two years, Ebanie Bridges is stepping back into the spotlight. The former IBF bantamweight champion, who hasn’t fought since December 2023, will return to the ring on January 3 in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on the undercard of Amanda Serrano vs. Erika Cruz II.

But this comeback carries a deeper meaning. It marks Bridges’ first fight since becoming a mother.

The Australian star, now 39, welcomed her son Ezerra Ray Brook in February with partner and former world champion Kell Brook, a life-changing moment that she says has transformed her motivation and fueled her return.

“He’s a whole new level of motivation for me,” Bridges said. “I’m excited to be getting back in the ring after some time out and even more excited to have my gorgeous son ringside.”

Standing across from her will be American bantamweight Alexis Araiza (3-2-1), a fighter with upset potential who’s eager to spoil the long-awaited comeback.

A New Era for Bridges Under MVP

Bridges (9-2) reenters the sport in partnership with Most Valuable Promotions, the Jake Paul–led outfit that signed her in July. MVP has placed heightened emphasis on women’s boxing—and Bridges’ personality, fan base, and fight style made her a natural fit.

January’s bout will be contested at her familiar home of bantamweight, with Bridges scheduled for eight two-minute rounds as she attempts to fight her way back into the world title picture.

Her confidence remains unmistakable.

“I can’t wait to do what I do best: entertain, put on a show, and deliver an exciting fight,” she said.
“Puerto Ricans are known for their heart, pride, and aggression… I think they’re going to love the Blonde Bomber.”

The San Juan card is expected to attract a massive local crowd—exactly the kind of energy Bridges thrives on.

A Stacked Card Surrounding Serrano vs. Cruz II

The Bridges–Araiza clash joins an already deep lineup beneath the Serrano–Cruz rematch.

MVP Prospect Spotlight

• Krystal Rosado (7-1) vs. Tania Walters (7-3) in a rare women’s bout contested with three-minute rounds, matching the men’s duration—another push by MVP for parity in women’s boxing.

All–Puerto Rican Battles

Two local rivalries are set to electrify San Juan:

• Bantamweights Abner Figueroa (7-0) vs. Edwin Rodriguez (12-9-3)

• Super featherweights Yandiel Lozano (2-0) vs. Johniel Ramos Cotto (3-2)

Professional Debuts

Bayamon’s Caleb Tirado and Iowa’s Justin Hill make their pro debuts in a bantamweight showdown.

Featured Undercard

• At middleweight, rising force Alex “Chop Chop” Chaparro (6-0) faces Augusto Leal (3-0).

• Undefeated contender Raquel Miller (13-0) makes her MVP debut at super middleweight.

• A quality WBA lightweight title fight sees veteran legend Holly Holm (34-2-3) battle unbeaten Stephanie Han (11-0).

• Flyweights Yankiel Rivera Figueroa (7-0-1) and Jonathan Gonzalez (28-4-1) meet in one of the evening’s sleeper matchups.

A Story of Return—and Renewal

For Bridges, this comeback is about more than reclaiming titles or reestablishing her status as a fan favorite. It marks the beginning of a new chapter—one defined by motherhood, perspective, and a new promotional home pushing her into the global spotlight.

Twenty-five months after her last bout, the Blonde Bomber is ready again.

And with her son ringside for the first time in her career, Ebanie Bridges has every reason to deliver a performance worth remembering.