Boxing: Falkirk Phoenix star Special K so unlucky after split decision loss

Drawn in the 54kg (bantamweight) category, local boxer Kernachan and her opponent Yayshannet Zapata of the USA were the only two boxers not to receive a bye, meaning they faced a round of 16 bout in the opening session – and in just the third fight of the tournament.

The opening round was a cagey affair with little between the two. Kernachan’s trademark high guard proved effective in blocking much of the American’s work, while she found success landing over the top against her taller opponent.

In the second round, Special K stepped up the pressure, landing a series of sharp, head-snapping shots that appeared to give her the edge. She continued that momentum into the third, producing arguably her strongest round. Constant movement and effective close-range work, including several well-timed uppercuts through Zapata’s guard, saw Kernachan dominate the exchanges and look in control of the contest.

However, despite her strong finish, a 3-2 split decision was awarded to the USA boxer, sparking visible surprise around the arena. Zapata appeared exhausted and subdued as she awaited the verdict, while Kernachan looked composed and confident. Both corners showed clear disbelief at the result, but Kernachan, as ever, remained professional, congratulating her opponent before leaving the ring.

Her mentor, Falkirk Phoenix coach Stevie Morrison, who was also officiating at the event, said: “That was a sore one. To say we were surprised at the decision would be an understatement. The reaction in and around the hall, on the boxers’ faces and in both corners says it all. It’s doubly disappointing because despite the USA boxer going on to win two more bouts and take silver, Stephanie misses out on ranking points as they’re only awarded from the quarter-finals onwards. It shows how important correct decisions are, as they can affect progression, selection and even funding. But we’ll take it on the chin and move on – it was another top-level performance from Stephanie.”

Kernachan has put together an impressive run of performances this season as she targets Commonwealth Games selection. She was unlucky to exit at the round of 16 stage at the World Championships against a top-10 ranked Mexican Olympian, followed by a dominant win over an English Commonwealth Games contender in December. In 2026 she has continued that form, narrowly losing a quarter-final in Hungary to a two-time European champion and world silver medallist, before securing gold at the Caledonia Box Cup.

Despite the disappointment in Helsinki, her performance level remains high, and she now looks ahead with confidence to her next outing, representing Scotland against Northern Ireland in Dalkeith tomorrow.