Jessica wants to POWER her way to the top

JESSICA Barry says she can be the knockout specialist women’s boxing lacks.

Katie Taylor was named the most marketable boxer in the world this month – days after two million fans tuned in to watch Claressa Shields beat Savannah Marshall.

Barry is just launching her pro career – but could have the punch to make her a star.

The 28-year-old from Coundon marked her debut with a stoppage – and says she wants another in front of her home crowd next month.

The Sports Connexion is likely to be full when Tommy Owens promotes there on Friday, November 25 – and Barry plans to produce some explosive action for the crowd.

She said: “People realise now that women’s boxing can be just as entertaining as men’s boxing.

“I watched the whole Claressa Shields-savannah Marshall show and enjoyed it, but most of the fights went the distance and I would rather be known as a knockout specialist.

“You don’t get paid for overtime in boxing!

“I want to get on the big shows as soon as possible and the best way to get noticed and entertain people is to get knockouts.

“I don’t know who I’m boxing in Coventry yet – but I’m going to treat her the same way I treated my first opponent.”

Cristina Busuioc lasted only 166 seconds in Solihull in September, Barry dropping her twice with hurtful left hooks to the body.

Barry said: “I got stoppages as an amateur by overwhelming the other girl, but I’m a different fighter now. “I’ve slowed myself down. “I’m looking to do the same thing to my next opponent.”

Barry says she wants women’s fights to be contested over three-minute rounds, rather than two.

She said: “I would get a lot of knockouts in the third minute of rounds.

“I don’t want them to be saved by the bell!”