Katie Taylor is set to conclude her boxing career on Saturday as she faces undefeated Flora Pili in front of 80,000 fans at Croke Park in Dublin. Taylor, an Olympic gold medallist and two-weight undisputed champion, has won 25 of her 26 professional fights, securing six victories by stoppage. The 40-year-old boxer has long expressed a desire to fight at Croke Park, and this final bout will fulfil that ambition.
Her opponent, Pili, a 29-year-old French challenger, maintains an undefeated record across 12 professional contests, with two stoppage wins. Pili is a former European champion, though she has not previously faced an opponent with Taylor’s extensive experience or pedigree. A victory in this light-welterweight contest would mark a significant end to Taylor’s career, potentially making her an undisputed champion for a third time.
Weigh-in and Fan Support
The final week leading up to the fight has seen Taylor maintain her characteristic composure. Both Taylor and Pili participated in the weigh-in at Trinity College, under clear autumn skies in Dublin, ahead of their undisputed light-welterweight championship bout. Taylor, who has consistently made weight throughout her 26-fight career, was greeted by a large number of devoted fans, many of whom have followed her journey since her 2012 Olympic gold medal win.
Both fighters successfully made weight, coming in just under the 10st (63.5kg) limit. All 80,000 tickets for Saturday’s event at Croke Park were sold out well in advance, and the ceremonial weigh-in on Friday also attracted a significant crowd. Supporters gathered at Trinity College to witness the Irish sporting icon, with Taylor being the central attraction.
Taylor expressed her excitement and gratitude following her final face-off. She stated that she had been dreaming of this opportunity for years and was now just one day away from ending her career at her dream venue. She also thanked her fans for their support throughout her Olympic and professional career, acknowledging that they have carried her through many moments.
Expert Predictions for the Bout
Several figures from the boxing world have offered their predictions for Saturday’s fight. Former cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew anticipates a brilliant night, capped by a fantastic performance from Taylor, suggesting Pili’s style will highlight Taylor’s abilities. Former undisputed super-bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney is confident of a Taylor win, believing the night will resonate with many nations.
Anthony Crolla, a former lightweight world champion, expects Taylor to deliver a vintage performance, potentially with a late stoppage, to conclude an extraordinary career. Unified super-featherweight champion Alycia Baumgardner also foresees an amazing performance from Taylor, noting her desire to win at Croke Park in her final appearance. Former two-weight world champion Carl Frampton believes Taylor is on a different level and should win, possibly finding a finish in the later rounds.
World title challenger Michael Conlan predicts a mid-to-late stoppage victory for Taylor, anticipating an unbelievable performance on a special evening. Former super-featherweight world champion Barry Jones also expects a clear win for Taylor, suggesting Pili might be overwhelmed by the pressure and Taylor’s combination punches. Adam Smith, a DAZN commentator, believes Taylor will secure the undisputed title and conclude her career in style.
However, DAZN presenter Ade Oladipo offered a more cautious prediction, acknowledging Taylor’s age and recent inactivity since her trilogy with Amanda Serrano. While Oladipo believes Taylor will win, he anticipates it will be a close decision, suggesting the fight might not be without its challenges. Taylor herself remains focused on the fight, stating her reputation is built on taking tough fights and her final bout will be no different.
Taylor weighed in at 139.6lbs, while Pili weighed 139.9lbs for the super-lightweight contest.
Source: bbc.co.uk