Shannell Dargan was in warrior mode on Wednesday night, securing a unanimous points-decision victory and dedicating the win to a beloved family member she recently lost. The touching pre-fight tribute added a profound emotional layer to her performance. Shannell Dargan Dedicates Unanimous Victory to Late Cousin in Emotional Tribute
Embracing Culture and Heritage
Before stepping into the ring at Wollongong, the Australian Super Bantamweight champion honored her culture in a routine walk-out. The Winanga-y Dreaming traditional dance troupe performed a traditional Aboriginal ceremony, welcoming Dargan into the spotlight during the third fight on the card against gritty Thai fighter Pannaporn Kaewpawong in the No Limit, George Rose Indigenous promotion.
Dargan stood solemnly with her entourage behind the six traditional Indigenous performers. The ceremony, taking place during NAIDOC Week, was both a moment of focus for the fight ahead and a time of quiet reflection on the recent passing of her cousin.
“My fight tonight,” Dargan posted earlier in the day, “is dedicated to my beautiful, late cousin Janet Bell – rest in peace my cuz, my biggest fan – this is for you.” Dargan’s cousin’s name, accompanied by the RIP acronym, was prominently displayed on the back of her shorts.
Judy Bell responded to Dargan on behalf of her sister, Janet, before the fight, saying, “She’ll be screaming out from the heavens above for you, and so will we.”
Dominant Performance in the Ring
In the non-title fight, the Wiradjuri and Mununjali woman delivered a commanding performance, securing shutout 50-45 scorecards from all three judges against a defiant Kaewpawong, who entered the bout with an impressive 4-1-0 record. Despite the tough competition, Dargan’s skill and determination shone through, handing her opponent only the second professional loss of her career.
With this victory, Dargan moved to her third successive win, holding a record of five wins from eight contests, including one defeat and two draws from her opening three fights. The 31-year-old from Campbelltown in Sydney’s South West came out swinging hard, delivering a stunning barrage of punches that threatened to end the fight early. However, Kaewpawong’s resilience and tenacity kept her in the match, much to the crowd’s astonishment.
“Man, she is tough as, I knew she would be,” Dargan said in the post-fight interview.
Looking Ahead
Dargan’s performance was not only a showcase of her boxing prowess but also a testament to her dedication to her culture and family. Her journey from a former singer to a formidable boxing champion continues to inspire many. With each fight, she honors her heritage and loved ones, making her victories resonate on a deeper level.
As she looks ahead, Dargan’s focus remains on her boxing career, driven by the support of her fans and family. Her recent win during NAIDOC Week is a testament to her strength, both inside and outside the ring.
The National Indigenous Cultural Centre (NICC) is an Indigenous home.
We provide Indigenous products, music, art and news.
If you want Indigenous gifts and merchandise, bush tucker food at your next event or Indigenous entertainment at your next party, expo or conference, feel free to contact us!
Visit our page: https://nicc.org.au/
Tony Clemenger.
Chief Executive Officer.
Tel: 0419431649.
Level 1 397 Chapel Street South Yarra 3141.
