The game between the Indiana Fever and the Connecticut Sun was anything but typical, with intense action, heated outbursts, and a remarkable display of perseverance from Sophie Cunningham. Cunningham stole the show in a game characterized by physical confrontations and increasing tension by responding with a blazing display that highlighted her martial arts training as well as her competitive spirit.

Taekwondo is one of the sports for which Sophie Cunningham has earned a black belt

Tensions between the Indiana Fever and the Connecticut Sun reached a breaking point during a contentious regular season contest at Indianapolis' Gainbridge Fieldhouse on June 17, 2025. When Marina Mabrey pushed Caitlin Clark in the eye after Jacy Sheldon poked her in the eye late in the third quarter, the spark ignited. Cunningham, who is well-known for her black belt in taekwondo, retaliated by rushing in to protect Clark and committing a severe foul on Sheldon that sparked a fight, which resulted in her expulsion from the game.

She became well-known as Clark's "enforcer" soon after the event. At the age of six, Cunningham attained her Taekwondo black belt. "Black belt Sophie Cunningham of the Fever...I'm a big fan," wrote one user on social media, expressing their admiration for the player. "WNBA needs to know that Sophie Cunningham is a black belt," said a second user. "She will piece you the f*** up lol." "Sophie Cunningham actually earned her black belt at age six," said a third user. You can't mess with her.

Did Sophie Cunningham misuse her martial arts prowess?

Rachel DeMita, a seasoned analyst and black belt in taekwondo, provided her opinion on Sophie Cunningham's behavior during the intense scene. Marca stated that she posted to her YouTube channel, saying, "Sophie did not grab her and throw her to the ground." "In my personal opinion, she didn't body-slam her; she didn't do anything," she added. I may be prejudiced here, but I want to give you my honest, unbiased view on this. She gave her a bear hug and brought her to the ground...

"Yes, it was intentional," DeMita said. It was on purpose. For me, it was payback for everything that had transpired during the course of the match. However, Sophie acted in a manner that wouldn't harm Jacy. She continued, "She was merely getting the message across, like, 'If the refs aren't going to handle it, I will handle it. We'll handle it. However, you won't do this when you enter our home.

Read Also: From Sachin to Shubman: Why Batting at No. 4 Remains a Coveted Spot

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!