Since her memorable stint on Love Island in 2021, AJ Bunker has traded the villa's romantic drama for the disciplined world of boxing, carving out a surprising and inspiring athletic path.
AJ Bunker's Transition from Reality TV to Boxing
AJ Bunker first captured public attention as a contestant on Love Island's seventh series, where her time in the villa was brief but impactful. Following her exit from the show, she made a decisive pivot in 2022, embarking on a professional boxing career that has since defined her post-reality television life.
A Record of Exhibition Fights
The former hairdresser has compiled a respectable record in the ring, participating in five exhibition bouts since her debut. Her boxing journey began in July 2022 with a debut fight against a social media personality, which resulted in a defeat. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, AJ went on to secure two victories against two additional losses, with her most recent competitive appearance occurring in early 2024.
Social Media Documentation and Inspirational Messages
AJ has actively chronicled her boxing evolution across social media platforms, sharing both her triumphs and the transformative nature of her athletic pursuit. In a particularly revealing 2023 post, she reflected on her unexpected career shift, writing: "From Love Islander to @misfitsboxing champion! Crazy where life takes you!"
She elaborated on this sentiment, adding: "Never in my wildest dreams did I ever imagine myself boxing let alone being a champion!" The reality star concluded her message with an empowering note for her followers: "If there’s something out there you want to try, but are nervous or scared, just go for it! You’ll never know unless you put yourself there and try! YOU GOT THIS."
Boxing's Influence on AJ's Personal Development
Ahead of her return to television screens on Love Island All Stars, AJ spoke candidly about how boxing has fundamentally changed her. She expressed a newfound determination to show viewers she's "not a doormat," crediting the sport with making her "more resilient" both inside and outside the ring.
Bringing Boxing to the Villa
When questioned about whether she might introduce boxing to her fellow All Stars contestants, AJ revealed playful plans to incorporate her athletic skills into the villa dynamic. She suggested boxing could serve as "a little flirting technique" and expressed interest in bringing her training equipment, stating: "I want to bring my mitts and boxing gloves out, that would be nice. I do like training and if I’m feeling a certain type of way that's how I like to let out my emotions too."
This unique blend of athletic discipline and reality television charisma continues to define AJ Bunker's public persona, marking her as one of Love Island's most unconventional and determined alumni.
