Daniels, known as "The Smiling Assassin," comes from a rural, almost unknown area of New Zealand. She started her professional boxing career in 2017 and has since racked up 11 wins, 2 losses, 2 draws, and 1 knockout. Daniels holds the IBF light heavyweight world title and three national titles in different divisions in New Zealand.
Standing at 1.69 m with a 170 cm reach, Daniels isn't your average boxer. She doesn't have an imposing punch, but she never gives up. Her record includes two losses against Geovana Peres and a trilogy with Tessa Tualevao that ended in two consecutive draws.
Outside the ring, Daniels wears many hats. She works as a nurse, serves as a community trainer, and acts as a Maori leader. Her journey from rural New Zealand to major boxing events shows her determination.
"The internal fight was won years ago,"Daniels says, emphasizing that she's not defined by wins or losses, but by the fight itself.
Facing Shields, widely regarded as the best pound-for-pound female boxer, presents a huge challenge for Daniels. No one has beaten Shields yet, but Daniels' resilience and unique background make her a compelling contender.
The upcoming bout will test Daniels' skills across weight classes, as she's competed in light heavyweight, super middleweight, and middleweight divisions. Her experience and versatility could prove crucial in this high-stakes match.
As the fight date approaches, all eyes will be on this clash between the undefeated champion and the determined challenger from New Zealand. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing's for sure - Lani Daniels will give it her all, true to her fighting spirit.