Nat Dove, though still learning, says, ‘These girls don’t got anything for me’

Is women’s junior bantamweight Nat “No Love” Dove a rising star? After Friday night’s performance, she’s certainly on the radar.

Dove (3-0) delivered a commanding four-round unanimous decision victory over Wendy Villegas (2-4, 2 KOs) at the Caribe Royale Orlando in Orlando, Florida. All three judges scored the bout 40-36, rewarding Dove’s dominance throughout the fight. Her control was evident, though she showed little emotion – not even a smile – and spoke little after the fight.

The 22-year-old Dove, from Philadelphia, fighting in her third professional bout, is trained by DJ Walton, the trainer and father of Javon “Wanna” Walton. Although her well-known lead hook was referenced often in the DAZN broadcast, Dove noted that her training camp involved more than just sharpening a single instrument in her toolbox.

“We worked on a whole lot other than the lead hook,” Dove said. “We worked on double jabs, setting up the right hand. I think I did all that pretty good tonight.”

With local fans rallying behind her, Dove emphasized that boxing is more than just a job for her – it’s her passion.

“I’m always happy when I’m in the ring. This is my happy spot,” she said. “I feel really good. I had a great camp.”

Dove also issued a statement to the rest of the division: “These girls don’t got anything for me.”

According to BoxRec, Dove is scheduled to return on Sept. 28 at the 2300 Arena for another four-round bout, which will also be her first fight at home in Philadelphia.

“I want to keep winning, keep growing, keep learning,” Dove said. “I want to keep learning in the gym, scoring, and I want to get better.”

Lucas Ketelle is a proud member of the Boxing Writers Association of America and author of “Inside The Ropes of Boxing” (available on Amazon). Contact him on X @LukieBoxing.