Amy Pu made history in March 2024 when she stepped into the ring at York Hall as Britain's first female professional boxing referee. The Taiwan-born official oversaw Marcus Eaton's points victory over Paul Scaife and refereed three additional bouts that night. Pu, who qualified as a referee in 2018 after transitioning from amateur judging, initially pursued the role hoping to reach Olympic level as an official.

Pu moved to London in 2004 before settling there permanently in 2009. A fitness hobby led to amateur competition and eventually officiating. When British Boxing Board of Control approached her about professional refereeing, she embraced the challenge despite knowing no woman had ever done it in the UK. Her parents supported the decision but worried about potential racism and safety concerns in the male-dominated sport.

The reaction from boxing supporters has been positive so far. Pu admits feeling extra pressure to perform well, knowing critics might blame her gender if mistakes occur. As a life coach and podcast host, she hopes her presence in the ring shows young girls that officiating is another pathway in the sport.

Having already refereed on Oleksandr Usyk's undercard at Wembley, Pu now aims for world title fights at major venues. Her breakthrough represents progress in a traditionally male-dominated space where capable officials of any background deserve opportunities.