The 27-year-old who hails from Lop Buri became the first woman to claim the world title, in the process putting her name in the history books as the first prisoner to become a champion, as well.

The outcome has a more significant meaning than just a sports record, as it puts her in a good position to win an early release on parole from her 10-year term for selling methamphetamine pills.

The victory is a product of months of intensive training and a reward for a woman who never gave up hope. Last May, Siriporn, who improved her record to 8-2, suffered a disappointing first bid at a world title when she went down to another Japanese boxer, Nanako Kikuchi, in a bout with a WBC strawweight belt at stake.

Siriporn never let the setback weaken her morale and kept on training, maybe even harder, to try for a second chance.

Sensing the freedom she has been yearning for these past several years might account for her going on the offensive at the opening bell.

Miyano, handicapped in both reach and height, seemingly opted to avoid a confrontation as at times she ran away when Siriporn approached.

Despite the frustrating tactic, the Thai boxer, cheered on by a partisan crowd with many jail mates, kept moving forward only to fail in landing a decisive blow that could make her day even better.

"I felt confident after the sixth round that I would win the fight. I controlled everything, and her punches rarely hurt me. I'm glad I eventually sealed the title," the jubilant inmate said.

Kitinan Sanguansak

The Nation