Chilean boxer Daniela “Leona” Asenjo has come forward with explosive claims, stating she was pressured into losing her IBO super flyweight world title rematch against Kazakhstan`s Angelina Lukas (15-1, 8 KOs) on May 31 in Taraz. Although her official reason for retiring in the sixth round was a back injury, Asenjo and her coach, Alejandro Concha, assert they faced death threats intended to guarantee Lukas`s victory.
Known for her exceptional resilience – she famously fought through a broken sternum against Gabriella Fundora in 2024 – Asenjo`s unexpected withdrawal sparked suspicion among her teammates at KO Club. Days after the bout, Asenjo and Concha shared a disturbing account. They claim the fight promoter, identified as an Azerbaijani, visited their hotel room, nervously placed money on Asenjo’s bed, and used a phone translator to deliver chilling warnings. He allegedly stated Asenjo could not win and that his life would be in peril if she did, implying they would be unable to leave the country.
According to Asenjo and Concha, the troubles began with their difficult 50-hour journey to Kazakhstan, which included flight delays and an unexpected detour through Uzbekistan, suspected by Concha to be intentional. Upon reaching Taraz, they reported further irregularities: Asenjo was allegedly denied the opportunity to inspect Lukas’s gloves, and Concha was barred from supervising her hand wraps. They also felt continuously observed by security personnel, one of whom seemingly even assisted Concha during the fight itself.
Asenjo fought cautiously in the ring, holding back from delivering potentially fight-ending blows out of profound concern for their safety. Coach Concha stated their overriding priority became simply surviving the situation and returning home to Chile. The pair have since declined an offer from the IBO for a rematch, expressing a strong desire to avoid any future contact with the individuals involved.
Both Asenjo and Concha voiced considerable frustration regarding the perceived lack of support from Chilean authorities throughout the ordeal, noting they ultimately had to rely on the assistance of Argentina’s consul in Russia for guidance. Concha remarked that it is disheartening when the significant effort made by athletes is not adequately valued in Chile. Asenjo reiterated the vital need for better institutional support for athletes in her country.
