Roha Hudson: 'Heartbroken' boxer wants to prove doubters wrong

Roha Hudson spent two weeks in hospital with Covid pneumonia in 2021

Shropshire boxer Roha Hudson says she is "heartbroken" about her "horrible" performance on her professional debut and will prove any doubters wrong when she returns to the ring.

Hudson, 27, was beaten by Poland's Esta Konecna after an unbeaten amateur career that brought her an ABA title.

The fight followed two years of recovery for Hudson from Covid pneumonia, which she caught in 2021.

"I couldn't stop crying afterwards," Hudson told BBC Radio Shropshire.

"The reason I was so upset wasn't because of the loss - it was my performance and I knew I couldn't take it back.

"It was eight minutes of a bad performance in a 10-year career."

Hudson lost 39-37 on points at Coventry's Sky Dome and said she did not feel great in the dressing room before the fight.

• From zimmer frame to the professional boxing ring

"There was some stuff happening in the changing room beforehand," she said.

"I just couldn't get rid of a horrible cold and cough and I've still got it now.

"I know that's not how I box - there were so many factors why I performed badly. It was out of my control, I couldn't take it back.

"It was a horrible, horrible performance that I don't want to relive. I've been heartbroken for the last four days."

After her health struggles, during which she feared she might not be able to walk again, Hudson said preparing for her ring entrance was a mixture of "pride and so many nerves".

"I knew it was going to be big and flashy and it was like, 'Oh my god, how am I here?' - it was crazy."

Hudson said she is "not going to dwell" on the setback and is staying optimistic over a swift return to the ring - and the chance to show what she can really do.

"I have had a call with the promoters - who have seen me box before and know I can box a lot better than I did," she said.

"There will be something... announced that will make me regain my legacy and showcase my skills for those who may be in doubt after my performance.

"I boxed my worst-ever fight and I lost by two points. If I'd boxed my best and that happened, I'd have to rethink the route I was taking.

"I'll look forward to the rematch or what comes next on their next show from Coventry."

Roha Hudson was talking to BBC Radio Shropshire's Johnty O'Donnell