Katie Taylor defeated Amanda Serrano for the third time this weekend, closing the door on a rivalry that redefined women’s boxing.
The pride of Ireland had already scored two close victories over Serrano, the second of which drew great debate and set up this third fight. As it always will be with these two elite competitors, this latest edition was razor thin again, though the champion did box smarter.
On the official cards, Taylor pulled away in the closing rounds to win a majority decision with the scores of 97-93, 95-95 and 97-93. At the post-fight press conference, she said her gameplan was to avoid a war with the Puerto Rican puncher.
“I thought I showed just a very smart performance. A performance I knew I was capable of against Amanda. The two fights previously just ended up as complete wars. I came out the ring battered and bruised, and I’m thinking ‘why am I still standing there fighting with her?’ I knew I was capable of moving my legs and just outboxing her. I’m just happy I was able to produce that tonight and execute the gameplan that Ross has been telling me to all along. I’m very, very satisfied right now.
“I’m so grateful for Amanda Serrano. What an amazing champion. We created history together three times. My name will always be embedded with hers and I’m very happy about that. It’s amazing having a rival in the sport.”
On the question of retirement, Irish superstar Taylor, 39, admitted that it would take some time before she reached a decision.
“I don’t know. I’m just going to enjoy this victory right now. Sit back, reflect and then I’ll make a decision on that soon. Very happy with tonight’s performance. It was a gruelling few months of preparation for these kind of fights and I’m so glad I could showcase what I could to tonight.”
There is little that could be added to Taylor’s legacy at this stage, however a fight at Dublin stadium, Croke Park, is something that has so far eluded her. If there is another fight, all involved will be pushing for it to happen there.
