Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall settle the score on a controversial and prolonged rivalry this weekend in one of the best all-British bouts of the year.
The story dates back to February of 2022 in Glasgow, where Taylor took a split decision victory despite Catterall’s performance worthy of the win in the minds of a majority of fans, pundits and fighters. In the aftermath, the British Boxing Board of Control launched an investigation into the scoring and would downgrade judge Ian John Lewis.
After injuries, delays and fights overseas, the pair are finally set to run it back. Speaking to Boxing News, British legend Ricky Hatton looked back on the first instalment, which was for Taylor’s undisputed super-lightweight title.
“I thought the first time Taylor was maybe a slight favourite and Jack fought the fight of his life. I was devastated for Jack. I’ve known him a few years, he trains with Jamie Moore my pal, and we’re all family in Manchester. That opportunity to have all the belts and he didn’t get the decision.”
Taylor has since vacated or lost all four of his belts, so pride and a favourable ranking is all that’s at stake this weekend in Leeds. Still, it feels that the rivalry is above any title. Hatton calls it a pick ’em, but would like to see Catterall win.
“Jack could go out and do the same again. I hope he goes out and does the same again to be honest with you. He knows in his mind and heart that he got the better of him last time, he’s just got to out there and believe in himself that he can do the same. If he does that, he’s got a great chance. But, sod’s law, sometimes it doesn’t work out like that, does it? Jack fought the fight of his life that night, but Josh Taylor might fight the fight of his life come the rematch. It’s one of them. I would say it’s 50/50.”
The pair face off on DAZN, with the Matchroom show also featuring Cheavon Clarke vs Ellis Zorro for the vacant British Cruiserweight title, Paddy Donovan vs Lewis Ritson and Gary Cully vs Francesco Patera.
