UTRECHT, Netherlands — Marischa "La Matadora" Sjauw, a legendary pioneer and multiple-time world champion in women’s boxing, passed away today, June 19, 2026, in Utrecht after a brave battle with cancer. She was 54 years old. Surrounded by her loving family, Sjauw leaves behind a profound legacy as one of the most respected and resilient figures in the history of European and international sports.  Sjauw fought from 1993 to 2004 as a professional boxer.

Photo Credit:  Mary Ann Owen

Born in Paramaribo, Suriname, before relocating to the Netherlands in 1977, Sjauw initially excelled in martial arts before turning her immense focus to professional boxing in 1993. Navigating an era where the sport offered little infrastructure or support for female boxers, she relied on exceptional mental fortitude to become a athlete.

Known as the Dutch "Road Warrior," Sjauw captured multiple world titles across three continents in a matter of months. Her career highlights include:

·     Winning the IFBA World Lightweight Championship on February 11, 2000, following a successful performance against Russian star Zulfia Koutdoussova.  WBAN was at this fight covering it ringside in Kenner, Lousiana, USA.

Photo credit: Sue TL Fox

Dominating on the other side of the world to claim the WIBF World Light Welterweight Championship against Wena Karaka in New Zealand on April 19, 2000.

Securing a third world crown just three weeks later in Cologne, Germany, by stopping Heike Noller via a third-round TKO to annex the WIBF World Lightweight Title.

Photo credit:  Mary Ann Owen

In recognition of her extraordinary skill, perseverance, and trailblazing contributions that opened doors for future generations of women in the ring,  She was inducted into the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame (IWBHF) during their elite ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada, in October 2022.

WBAN was notified of the passing of Marischa by a long-time friend -- Jimmy Finn. 

Jimmy Finn, a prominent boxing figure and a deeply close personal friend of Marischa, released an appreciation reflecting on her life, dignity, and impact:   

Photo credit:  Mary Ann Owen

Marischa Sjauw – an appreciation

It’s with profound sadness and a heavy heart we learn of the passing of Marischa Sjauw a legend of women’s boxing in the Netherlands. After a brave battle Marischa passed away on Friday June 19th, in Utrecht, in the loving care of her family.

Marischa was a most respected figure in the world of women’s boxing, whose passion and dedication contributed enormously to the sport she loved. Like many of her peers, she had to endure the hardships and deal with the complications and contradictions of a sport not designed for her. Through her mental fortitude and bravery Marischa became a multiple World Champion and opened many doors for those who followed in her footsteps.

Although Marisha’s story was a voyage of many storms and adversities, she lived a life of dignity and decency. She was a kind, intelligent, inspirational and warmhearted person. For those of us lucky to know her well, she was the most gracious and loyal friend imaginable.   There’s no doubt Marischa left this world in a better place than she found it, and her life left memories too beautiful to forget.  Today we mourn Marischa and send our condolences and kindness to her beloved son Ticho and all her extended family and friends.  May She Rest in Eternal Peace.  Jimmy Finn

Photo credit:  Sue TL Fox

WBAN is absolutely heartbroken over this news.  Not only was Marischa Sjauw one of the best female boxers in her era of boxing, but she was one of the most hard-working female boxers, humble and kind to all, and always expressing her appreciation of anyone who worked hard in boxing.  We give our sincere condolences to her family, friends, her son Ticho, and any who had the pleasure and fortune to have ever crossed paths with Marischa.

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