Geraldton boxer Frauke Rawlings goes back-to-back Golden Gloves champion in 70kg title in Queensland

Geraldton’s teen boxing sensation Frauke Rawlings has secured back-to-back Golden Gloves titles — winning the 70kg title and claiming silver in the 66kg division — in Queensland over the weekend.

In her initial bout at the 2023 National Golden Gloves Championship, the 16-year-old fighter faced off against none other than the reigning Australian champion in the 66kg category, Tahlea Toohey.

Although she fell short against Toohey in the fight, Rawlings walked away with the silver gloves, but she turned it around the next day.

Stepping up a weight category to 70kg, she faced off against New Zealand’s Nikah Perez in a closely contested and gritty bout.

The match went the distance, with Rawlings emerging victorious on points, repeating her winning efforts from last year to make her a back-to-back champion.

“I lost my first fight against the Australian champion at 66kg,” Rawlings said.

“Then, the next day, I went up a weight category to 70kg youth and came up against Nikah Perez from New Zealand. It was a tough and close fight, which I won on points. Thank you to both of my opponents, and thank you to Danny Heyes for cornering me. I’m so grateful for your help.”

Supporting Rawlings every step of the way was her coach, ‘Uncle’ Mick from SkyBox in Geraldton, who emphasised the growth and learning that comes from facing formidable opponents, particularly those who are considered the best in their respective categories.

Uncle Mick expressed his pride in Rawlings’ performance, acknowledging her willingness to challenge herself by stepping up in weight and facing a larger opponent, all while contending with her first southpaw fight.

As she returns home to Geraldton to recharge, Rawlings’ focus will turn to the upcoming Wintersun Wars event later this year.