Olympic Boxer Marlen Esparza is a Cover Girl model with a right hook like a mack truck.
Get Active!
By Jim Schmaltz
April 2013
Tell Marlen Esparza she fights like a man, and she'll smile at you like a Disney Princess. Esparza is more than a history-making Olympic boxer; she's the new female ideal in elite athletics, pursuing traditionally masculine athletic skills while radiating femininity when not in competition. Her unique combination of brutal brawler and photogenic beauty—which she displays for her high-profile sponsors like McDonald's and Coca-Cola—has made her a fan favorite of young girls, especially those in the Latino community. But make no mistake: She's serious about punching the lights out of her opponents.
