Katie Taylor solidified her status in boxing history on Friday night by narrowly defeating Amanda Serrano to maintain her undisputed super lightweight title in a fiercely competitive match. This clash, the third in their acclaimed rivalry, led the first all-women’s boxing event at Madison Square Garden, captivating a sold-out audience. Taylor narrowly won on points, with judges scoring it 95-95, 97-93 in her favor.
“What an amazing fighter,” Taylor remarked about Serrano. “We’re history makers forever.”
Serrano, representing Puerto Rico with pride, received enthusiastic cheers from her adopted hometown, accompanied into the ring by the New York Knicks dancers. Taylor, 39, and a former Olympic gold medalist, displayed a calm demeanor, possibly indicating it could be her final bout. Observers were keenly aware they might be witnessing a farewell to one of boxing’s legends.
The fight began with surprising caution, featuring only three punches in the initial round, a contrast to their previously aggressive encounters. By the third round, momentum increased as Serrano launched a barrage of punches, but she struggled to connect cleanly, hindered by Taylor’s sturdy defense. After 10 intense rounds, the fighters embraced, uncertain of the outcome.
“I needed a lot of help down the home stretch today,” said Taylor. “I just have a ton of respect for Amanda. She’s just — what a warrior.” The pair first made history in 2022 as the first women to headline Madison Square Garden. Taylor also triumphed in that bout and their second meeting last November, which was marred by controversy after she was penalized for head butts.
Friday’s fight was streamed live on Netflix, marking another significant sports milestone for the platform after its successful NFL coverage.
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