In a remarkable comeback, Dina Thorslund has reclaimed her position as world champion by defeating Cherneka Johnson, thus ending Johnson's reign as the undisputed titleholder. This emotional victory marks Thorslund's return to the sport after a hiatus due to pregnancy. Thorslund dominated the fight from the outset, employing an aggressive strategy that earned her a unanimous decision victory, winning every round against Johnson in the MVPW-5 main event in Orlando, Florida. Thorslund, who remains undefeated with a record of 25-0 and nine knockouts, had previously vacated her WBC and WBO bantamweight titles in June 2025 due to her pregnancy.
Following a miscarriage, she announced her return to boxing and proceeded to defeat Almudena Alvarez, capturing the vacant WBC interim featherweight title. Thorslund then moved back to the bantamweight division to compete for the undisputed championship.
The lead-up to the fight was emotionally challenging for Thorslund, whose training partner, Raven Chapman, underwent emergency brain surgery after collapsing during a sparring session. An emotional Thorslund expressed her gratitude, stating, "This has been such an emotional journey for me the last year. I'm going to take this [title belt] straight back to Raven and say thank you." Throughout the fight, Thorslund maintained control, utilizing aggressive combinations that put Johnson on the defensive, particularly in the early stages.
By the end of the third round, Thorslund had landed 37 punches to Johnson's 14, ultimately building a 103-62 edge in power punches. All three judges scored the fight 100-90 in favor of Thorslund.
Johnson, who became the undisputed champion by knocking out Shurretta Metcalf in July 2025, was unable to capitalize on her power against Thorslund. Whenever Johnson connected, Thorslund responded with a series of shots, showcasing her dominance in the ring.