Lani Daniels, widely known as “The Smiling Assassin,” is a Inventive New Zealand professional boxer. She has achieved historic achievements in this sport, for which she is recognized worldwide. Born Te Arani Moana Daniels on July 15, 1988, in Whangārei, she became the first New Zealand-born boxer of Maori descent to conquer world titles in two different divisions.
Career Highlights
Debut: Daniels began her pro boxing career in September 2017, winning her first bout against Trish Vaka by unanimous decision.
Early Titles: Within her first year, she secured the NZPBA Light Heavyweight title and later the Pro Box NZ Super Middleweight title, making her the first Kiwi woman to hold two pro national titles in different weight divisions from separate organizations.
World Stage: Daniels made history on May 27, 2023, by defeating Alrie Meleisea for the inaugural IBF World Heavyweight Championship, marking a landmark first between two New Zealand-born fighters and between Māori and Pasifika athletes.
Two-Division Champion: Later that year, Daniels added the IBF World Light Heavyweight title to her accolades, becoming the first New Zealand and Māori boxer to be world champion in two divisions.
Stats
| Total Fights | Wins | Losses | Draws | Wins by KO |
| 15 | 11 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
While Daniels is not known for knockout power (just one KO listed), she is celebrated for her skill, composure, and tactical prowess in the ring, with most of her victories coming by decision.
Awards and Recognition
- In 2015, the Bobby Johnson Cup for the Most Skilled Boxer was awarded at the New Zealand national amateur boxing championships.
- She was awarded the Northland Sports Awards Female Boxer of the Year in 2018.
- Several nominations and wins at the New Zealand Boxing Awards, including Fight of the Year and Best Looking Female Boxer (2019).
Also Read: Who is Claressa Shields? Career, Stats, Records, Boyfriend and Net Worth
Daniels’ journey reflects remarkable perseverance, community leadership, and ground-breaking achievement as a Māori and as a woman at the pinnacle of international boxing.
