January 30, 2013 at 5:54 p.m.
Perozzi appreciates public accoldaes
Perozzi, who twice defended her world title in '06, said it had been a tough year, physically and emotionally, but she had come through it a stronger person and would start 2007 with a renewed determination to take her boxing career to new heights.
"It feels very special. You guys are always very supportive of me and I definitely appreciate the recognition from readers."
She said the high point of the year, in the ring, was her points victory over Roselin Morales - the toughest opponent she has faced - at the Rumble on the Beach in July.
But even more satisfying was the support she received from the public when she contemplated quitting because of a lack of financial and structural backing.
"Everybody was very positive, very supportive. I guess I didn't realize how much I had impacted people by doing this.
"Everything I went through and sacrificed, and not having the Government support, makes it more special when you get to the top and you know you have done it on your own."
She said she felt her popularity, particularly among women, was down to the fact that she was not your stereotypical boxer.
"I think boxing has a bit of a negative image, you think of it a little bit differently. You don't expect someone with a degree, with their own business, especially a massage business, to be a boxer.
"It's still seen as a man's sport and it still is a man's sport. But I think women have a good work ethic and can dedicate themselves to training even more. It shows that we can do it as well."
Perozzi, who has also competed in road races and triathlons this year, has tremendous respect for our Young Athlete of the Year - Flora Duffy.
"I really admire her. I think we've been in some of the same races but I'm useless on the bike so I would have been so far behind!
"When I was younger it was my dream to compete in an Ironman, so I really respect what she has achieved."
On a personal note Perozzi hopes to continue her success into 2007 with a possible WBA title fight against Scroller Carrington in the offing.[[In-content Ad]]
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