We’re just one week into the new year, and El Paso is already in the national spotlight and it’s all thanks to three incredible women showing exactly how tough, talented, and unstoppable girls can be.
First, there’s Stephanie Han, El Paso’s undefeated boxing star who is showing the world that determination and skill pay off in the biggest arenas. Then there’s Cindy Balandran, who is taking her talents to the global stage as a competitor on a hit Amazon Prime reality series, ready to go head-to-head with some of the strongest and smartest contestants around. And finally, Krystall Poppin is turning heads with her music, film, and community leadership and soon she will be earning official recognition from the city while inspiring audiences everywhere.
From the boxing ring to reality TV to the music stage, these El Pasoans are proving that our city produces world-class women ready to take on anything. These three women are having major “Mija, Yes You Can” moments and I am loving all of it!
Courtesy: Krystall Poppin/Cindy Balandran
Courtesy: Krystall Poppin/Cindy Balandran
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Meet Stephanie Han: World Boxing Champion
El Paso’s own Stephanie Han took the co-main event spotlight in San Juan, Puerto Rico, facing off against the legendary Holly Holm on the Amanda Serrano-Reina Tellez card.
Han, currently the WBA Lightweight World Champion, defended her title in what is considered her biggest fight to date, her second under Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. Holm, who returned to boxing in 2025 after a storied UFC career, brought the challenge, but in a display of skill, precision, and heart, Han won by unanimous decision, keeping her undefeated streak alive and proving she’s one of the best in the world.
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Meet Krystall Poppin: Music, Film, and Community Leader
Fans watching Stephanie Han’s fight may have noticed a familiar face walking her to the ring: Krystall Poppin. Not only did she personally write a song for Han, but she also performed it live during Han’s entrance, making the moment even more unforgettable.
The City of El Paso will be recognizing her accomplishments in music, film, and community leadership with an official proclamation declaring “Krystall Poppin Day.” Residents and fans are invited to celebrate her achievements at City Hall on Tuesday, January 20th at 9:00 AM.
Meet Cindy Balandran: Reality Competition Star
El Pasoan Cindy Balandran is representing the city on the second season of Amazon Prime’s hit reality competition series, “Beast Games,” hosted by YouTuber Mr. Beast. Premiering on Wednesday, January 7th, Cindy was selected as one of fifty women on the ‘Strong’ team.
She’ll compete against 200 contestants in mentally demanding, skill-based challenges for a chance to win $5 million, with an additional $10 million in prizes up for grabs. Her participation is a testament to her strength, intelligence, and drive, putting El Paso on the map in the world of competitive reality TV.
If this is what week one looks like, I am so excited to see what the rest of the year has in store for El Paso!
Meet the El Paso Talent Making Waves in Broadway and Hollywood
Gallery Credit: Getty Images
PHOTOS: Inside El Paso’s First-Ever New Year’s Eve Star Drop
El Paso made history with its first Star Drop at San Jacinto Plaza, featuring live music, local DJs, and a celebration built by local businesses.
Gallery Credit: Courtesy; Iris Lopez, El Paso Winterfest, Christian Churches