Rising to become one of the North West’s most hopeful young boxers, Naomi Kalu has continued to sharpen her tools as she takes bigger leaps in the sport.

Naomi has worked incredibly hard to position herself in the world of women’s boxing. Beginning her journey aged just 14, she has proven to be an unstoppable force, both dedicated and committed to achieving her dream.

Walking into 2022, Naomi had just two bouts under her belt. However, striding into 2023, she has now been crowned a national champion, as well as a three time north west champion.

Her most recent success comes from the National Boxing Championship Finals, taking place in Bridlington.

Leaving this competition as a champion, the gold medal meant everything to Naomi, who had trained religiously in preparation.

Similar success was noticed in her Winter Box Cup performance, where she pulled out a stunning show to walk away victorious.

Speaking on her experience, Naomi said this competition was enjoyable after a break away from events.

“I’d not been to a tournament in a while before this, so it was good to get back fighting.

“There’s a really good level of competition at this event, it gathers competitors from all over the world.

“It was also really nice to see so many female boxers all competing in one place, I met so many boxers over the course of 2022 and it’s always nice to see them in action,” she said.

Looking back with fondness, Naomi said she feels incredibly grateful for the opportunities that came her way in 2022.

Gaining tons of knowledge and experience as the year progressed, Naomi was able to show her strength at various competitions, as well as edge closer to reaching her goal of making the GB squad.

“2022 taught me that I know how to push myself and develop. It set the standards for me to see how far I can go from there, so it’s onwards and upwards for me now.

“I’ve been doing a lot of technical work and have built my fitness up a lot. I owe a lot of thanks to my coaches who help to motivate me and give up a lot of their time to help me develop,” she said.

19-year-old Naomi dreams of competing at an Olympic Games. Working with the England Boxing Youth Development team, Naomi has began taking steps to reach her goal.

“My plan now is to just continue with my boxing, and hopefully make it onto the GB and England squads. I’ve also been doing my coaching and mentoring courses, helping to build on what I’ve already been doing,” she said.

Aside from her immense talent in the ring, Naomi also works to nurture young talent within her club at Oldham Boxing. Supporting summer and winter camps as well as mentoring young boxers, she sees passion in helping others to achieve their dreams.

“The camps are amazing. When they first come, they’re all really shy and after a short time they’re all chatting and bouncing off each other.

“Boxing just helps you to grow that confidence so much, and even with the children you see them pushing each other to do better.

“It’s so nice to see different people of different ages and cultures all coming together, you see individuals coming out quickly in boxing.”

Training hard to make the fights easier, Naomi has her eye on her goal and won’t let anything stand in her way.

Stepping out of the ring, her talents continue on, as she’s also making waves in the music scene.

“My music has been really impactful this year. I performed at Sheba Arts Festival and also at my father’s book launch. I wrote some songs to link with his book too.

“Music and boxing work side by side for me, it allows me to set myself apart from fighting and relax. I listen to music all the time, people recognise me with my headphones on,” she said.

2023 is all about building for Naomi. She’s hoping to build on her talent, strength and passion to further rocket herself to her dreams.

Her name is one that will soon be seen in lights, putting Oldham on the map and climbing her way to the top of the boxing scene.

Do you know an inspirational sporting woman in Tameside or Glossop?

Women in Sport is a weekly column which shares the incredible stories of ladies involved in sport across the area. We are always on the lookout for fresh stories to tell. To nominate someone for the column or get involved yourself, please email Katie on katie.catherall@questmedianetwork.co.uk. 

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