On October 12th, 2019, Jessica McCaskill won her rematch with Erica Anabella Farias, outpointing the Argentinean by 10 round majority decision in Chicago, USA. This was a successful defence of the WBA and WBC belts for “CasKILLA,” but for boxing’s purists, it was even more significant than that. The two women were the clear top two ranked fighters in the division, as per the ratings at Lineal Boxing Champion, and also at BoxRec. As is tradition, a “#1 Vs #2” match-up, crowns a true champion. In women’s boxing, this victory put Jessica alongside Katie Taylor, Claressa Shields, and Geovana Peres, the only other Lineal Champions – fighters who have all won “#1 Vs #2” match-ups in their weight classes.
In August this year, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, amidst a pandemic, McCaskill stunned unbeaten Norwegian, Cecilia Braekhus outpointing her over 10 rounds, and taking her collection of world title belts.
McCaskill is our #1 rated Welterweight and top-rated Junior Welterweight. She holds all the belts at 147bs and is the reigning Lineal World Champion at 140lbs. Last week we contacted the Champ, to find out a bit more about her, and to see what her future plans are.
(Photo credit: Jessica McCaskill/Instagram)
Not only did you move up in weight to defeat Braekhus, am I right in saying that you trained for the fight while still working full time as an investment banker?
Yes.
What led you into a career as an investment banker, one which is so different to boxing?
The job was brought to me actually just based off of being a hard worker with endless drive. I had never been in the finance field before but that wasn’t an issue. I was acquired for my ability to learn and adjust quickly and strong self-motivated work ethic.
How old were you when you first joined a boxing gym, and what sparked your interest to do it?
I was 24. I had always enjoyed sports and being a gym rat. This just seemed like a new challenge and a good way for me to stay fit.
When not working/boxing, what do you like doing to relax?
I have two rescue pit bulls. They are a sassy handful. I love to spend time with them, and give them the best life I can. Other than that, I have a pretty tight schedule. I get a lot of free time during fight week. I like to watch junk TV, since I normally don’t have time to.
Do you like watching the big fights? Who are your favourite current boxers?
I go back into the archives mostly. Current fights - I will normally catch the highlights, unless it’s something my coach, Rick Ramos, wants me to see. I watch Fernando Vargas, Cotto, Canelo and GGG.
Did the WBC ask you to vacate the belt? What happened? (Chantelle Cameron Vs Adriana Araujo on October 4th was for the vacant WBC belt).
We were told that we had to give up a belt. We vacated the WBA belt. We found out from social media that we were vacating the WBC. We were never told by anyone including Eddie Hearn. We figured the WBC does not charge sanctioning fees so I guess they are allowed to remove you. There was no conversation. That happens a lot in boxing. There are no real concrete answers for anything. Rick Ramos asked Matchroom, and our own lawyers what to expect, and never got a clear answer.
Lineal Boxing Champion will continue to recognize you as the true Lineal World Champion at Junior Welterweight until you are either beaten in the ring, at 140lbs, or until you say that you are permanently leaving the division. Do you plan on fighting at 140lbs again? In 2021? Or are you now staying at Welterweight?
After the rematch we will see what the next best option is. If we win Claressa is more than welcome to come to 147 or Katie can come up to 147.
Having beaten Braekhus once, do you think the experience will make you an even stronger and better
fighter for the rematch?
Every fight at this level gives you more wisdom and the type of experience you can gain so much from.
Your dedication, work ethic, and successful team with Rick Ramos at the Body Shot Boxing Gym is inspiring. Do you have a message for your fans?
Dare to be great! Believe in yourself! Push your limits - that’s the only way you will see what you're made of.