Kali Reis

26xK...gHma

23 Feb 2024

Kali Reis

Kali Reis, born on August 24, 1986, is a multifaceted talent known for her prowess in both boxing and acting.
As a professional boxer, Reis has made significant achievements, including becoming a world champion in two weight classes. She held the WBC female middleweight title in 2016 and later secured the WBA, WBO, and IBO female light welterweight titles from 2020 to 2022. Additionally, she notably challenged Cecilia Brækhus for the undisputed female welterweight title in 2018, demonstrating her skill and determination in the sport.

Transitioning into the world of acting, Reis made a notable debut in 2021 with her starring role in the American thriller film "Catch the Fair One." Her portrayal of a boxer on a mission to rescue her missing sister garnered critical acclaim, earning her a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead. This recognition speaks to her talent and versatility as an actress, showcasing her ability to embody complex and compelling characters on screen.

Continuing her acting career, Reis has recently starred in the mystery series "True Detective: Night Country" in 2024, further expanding her repertoire and demonstrating her commitment to pursuing excellence in both boxing and acting.

Kali Reis, born on August 24, 1986, in Providence, Rhode Island, is deeply connected to her indigenous roots and Cape Verdean ancestry. Growing up as the youngest of five children raised by her mother in East Providence, Reis has always been proud of her heritage. She identifies as having Cherokee and Nipmuc ancestry and is a member of the Seaconke Wampanoag Tribe, although it is unrecognized by the state of Massachusetts.

Throughout her childhood, Reis actively participated in powwows, immersing herself in the traditions of her culture. Her mother, whom she reveres as the medicine woman of their tribe, bestowed upon her the name Mequinonoag, meaning "many feathers" or "many talents," which she incorporates into her boxing nickname, "K.O. Mequinonoag."

Reis demonstrated her athleticism from a young age, often engaging in sports with neighborhood boys and participating in activities such as marching bands, color guard, and volleyball during her school years. However, it was at the age of 14 that she discovered her passion for boxing, initially training at Manfredo's Gym in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, under the guidance of a friend of her mother. She continued her training at various gyms, including Manfredo's Gym and Big Six Boxing Academy in Providence.

Before turning professional, Reis had a successful amateur boxing career, winning several championships, including the 2007 Rocky Marciano Championship, the 2007 NYC Golden Gloves, and the 2006 New England 154 Championship.
Beyond her accomplishments in the boxing ring, Reis is also known for her advocacy work. She is an active supporter of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) movement, using her platform to raise awareness about this critical issue affecting indigenous communities.
Kali Reis's journey is a testament to her resilience, strength, and commitment to honoring her heritage while making a positive impact both inside and outside the ring.

In 2012, Kali Reis faced a significant setback when she was involved in a serious motorcycle accident, forcing her to sit out the remainder of the boxing season. However, displaying her characteristic determination and resilience, she made a triumphant return to the ring in 2013. Her comeback fight for the WIBA title in November of that year garnered widespread attention and showcased her remarkable talent and perseverance.

Reis continued to make strides in the sport, capturing the IBA crown on November 12, 2014, with a victory over Teresa Perozzi in Bermuda. Alongside her accomplishments in boxing, Reis has also dedicated herself to coaching youth in the sport, serving as a mentor and trainer to aspiring boxers.
In April 2016, Reis achieved a significant milestone in her career by winning her first major world title in New Zealand. In a hard-fought battle against Maricela Cornejo, Reis emerged victorious, clinching the vacant WBC World Middleweight title and solidifying her status as a formidable competitor in the boxing world.

One of the pivotal moments in Reis's career came on May 5, 2018, when HBO aired its first women's bout featuring Reis against Cecilia Brækhus. Although Reis ultimately faced defeat in the match, her participation in this historic event underscored her status as a trailblazer in women's boxing and further elevated her profile within the sport.

Kali Reis's journey into the world of film began when filmmaker Josef Kubota Wladyka noticed her passionate advocacy for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) movement. Impressed by her commitment to the cause, Wladyka approached Reis with the idea of collaborating on a film centered around this important subject. Recognizing the opportunity to shed light on this critical issue, Reis enthusiastically agreed to participate as a co-writer and lead actress in the project.

Their collaboration resulted in the creation of "Catch The Fair One," a gripping thriller that premiered to acclaim at the Tribeca Film Festival in June 2021. Reis's debut performance in the film garnered praise from critics and audiences alike, showcasing her versatility and talent as an actress.
Following the success of "Catch The Fair One," Reis continued to make waves in the film industry. She was cast in Jean-Stéphane Sauvaire's 2023 film "Asphalt City," previously titled "Black Flies," based on Shannon Burke's novel. Starring alongside acclaimed actors such as Sean Penn, Tye Sheridan, and Katherine Waterston, Reis further demonstrated her ability to command the screen with her compelling presence.

In June 2022, Reis's star continued to rise when she was announced as the co-lead of "True Detective: Night Country," the highly anticipated fourth season of HBO's acclaimed anthology crime series. In this latest installment, Reis portrays a detective alongside veteran actress Jodie Foster, embarking on a harrowing investigation into the mysterious disappearance of eight men from an Alaskan research station. With her captivating performances and dedication to storytelling, Reis has solidified her status as a rising talent in both the boxing ring and the world of cinema.