Amy Pu has made history with a knockout punch – becoming Britain's first-ever female professional boxing referee. Her trailblazing debut at York Hall in March 2024 was the culmination of a journey that's left her fighting-fit and ready for more. With Marcus Eaton's victory over Paul Scaife under her belt, Pu has proven she's got what it takes to be one of the best in the business.
From humble beginnings in Taiwan, Pu's passion for boxing took hold when she arrived in London in 2004. What started as a fitness fad soon turned into serious competition, and before long, she was judging amateur bouts and working towards her England Boxing referee qualification – all while juggling a new life in the UK.
When an opportunity arose to join the professional ranks, Pu seized it with both hands. The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) training course proved a baptism by fire, but she was determined to succeed where others had failed. Now, as she takes on more fights and builds her reputation, Pu's message is clear: she's here to stay, and she'll be judged purely on her performance – not her gender or heritage.
Pu's family may have been nervous about her decision to enter the male-dominated world of professional boxing, but they've always been her biggest supporters. Her parents, though initially concerned for her safety, soon came to see that refereeing is all about being in control – and Pu has shown she's got the mettle for it.
With a packed schedule ahead, including a recent appearance at the Robert Lloyd-Taylor Jr vs Denis Hnidek bout, Pu is proving that female referees are here to stay. And as she works towards full qualification by 2025, one thing's clear: Amy Pu has broken down barriers and opened doors for generations of aspiring female officials – and she's just getting started.