Maricela Cornejo in training

Middleweight boxer Maricela Cornejo trains for her fight in the co-main event of a Golden Boy Promotions card. Cornejo has overcome childhood and young adult adversity to emerge as a possible signature face of female boxing.

(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Oct. 4, 2016 6:10 PM PT

Maricela Cornejo trains for her fight in the co-main event of a Golden Boy Promotions card on Friday.

Maricela Cornejo does some focus mitt work during a training session in Los Angeles. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Maricela Cornejo pulls her hair into a ponytail as she prepares for a workout.

(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Maricela Cornejo shadow boxes during her training routine for an upcoming fight on a Golden Boy Promotions card.

(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Says Maricela Cornejo: ‘I believe I have the talent, the personality and heart to be a face of boxing. I’m just getting to my peak.’

(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Maricela Cornejo rehydrates during her training session in preparation for a middleweight bout.

(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Maricela Cornejo works with the striking bag during a recent training session.

(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Maricela Cornejo shares a lighter moment with a friend during her recent training session.

(Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

Sports Boxing & MMA

Maricela Cornejo in training

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