Chester native Fredia Gibbs, the first African-American woman to become a kickboxing champion, recently returned home to be recognized by Chester City Council, writes Kathleen Carey for the Delaware County News Network.

Gibbs, now 55, was a track and basketball star at Chester High School, where she earned the nickname “The Cheetah.” She was presented with a proclamation for her multiple kickboxing titles and other accomplishments.

After high school, Gibbs attended Temple on basketball and track scholarships. She later played professional basketball in Europe.

Advertisement

In the 1990s, she started her fighting career, which resulted in 16 wins (15 by knockout), zero losses, and one draw in kickboxing and eight wins and zero losses in Muay Thai kickboxing.

“Out of all the awards and recognition and things I’ve received throughout my lifetime around the world, I think this one is one of the most special and most precious ones,” said Gibbs.

Read more about Fredia Gibbs from the Delaware County News Network by clicking here.