In a highly anticipated third chapter of their compelling rivalry, Katie Taylor once again emerged victorious over Amanda Serrano, securing a majority decision win to retain her undisputed super lightweight championship. The historic bout unfolded before a deafening crowd at Madison Square Garden in New York, a fitting venue for a contest that promised tactical intrigue after their previous two encounters.
While their initial battles were characterized by periods of intense, toe-to-toe action, the third meeting began with a more measured, tactical approach from both fighters. The opening rounds saw Taylor, the champion, utilizing her sharp movement and probing jab, while Serrano, the challenger, sought to close distance and unleash her renowned power. It was a cagey start, perhaps reflecting the profound respect built over 20 previous rounds shared in the ring, or perhaps a strategic adjustment from Serrano following her prior losses.
As the fight progressed through the middle rounds, a discernible pattern emerged. Taylor, comfortable boxing at range and employing calculated counters, landed effective combinations as Serrano attempted to apply pressure. Serrano, for her part, found moments of success when she managed to cut off the ring and unleash her potent left hand. The action was often razor-thin, leaving commentators and spectators alike grappling with how to score the rounds. Taylor sustained a small cut under her right eye, a testament to Serrano`s persistent threat, yet she continued to box intelligently, adapting her tactics round by round.
Entering the championship rounds, the tension was palpable. With the fight hanging in the balance, both athletes knew the final minutes would likely determine the outcome. Taylor showcased exceptional movement and defensive skill, often tagging Serrano as the challenger pressed forward. Taylor`s ability to land clean shots while maneuvering out of danger was a critical factor, preventing Serrano from gaining significant momentum.
When the final bell sounded, the outcome remained uncertain. The judges` scorecards reflected the fight`s competitive nature. Two judges scored the bout 97-93 in favor of Katie Taylor, while the third judge saw it as a 95-95 draw. The majority decision confirmed Katie Taylor`s status as champion and concluded the trilogy with a 3-0 record against her decorated rival.
In the immediate aftermath, the atmosphere remained electric, with the Irish contingent in the crowd making their presence felt. Katie Taylor displayed typical grace, thanking the fans and acknowledging the historic significance of her contests with Serrano. She praised Serrano, highlighting the difficulty of fighting someone with such formidable power.
Amanda Serrano, visibly emotional, expressed disappointment with the result. She revealed that her corner believed she had done enough to win and explained her strategy was to box more, avoiding the close-quarters exchanges that characterized earlier fights. While upset, she also took time to thank the crowd for their support of women`s boxing.
Adding a touch of post-fight levity, when asked about the possibility of a fourth fight, Katie Taylor offered a definitive, if slightly humorous, refusal: “I don`t want to fight Amanda Serrano again… she punches too hard.” It was a candid admission that underscored the challenge Serrano presented, even in defeat, and perhaps definitively closed the book on one of boxing`s most compelling modern rivalries.
The third clash between Taylor and Serrano delivered a strategic battle befitting two pound-for-pound elite fighters, cementing their legacy and providing another high-profile platform for women`s boxing.
