Katie Taylor retains titles with controversial win over Amanda Serrano

Katie Taylor continues to hold the title of undisputed super lightweight champion after a close victory over Amanda Serrano in yet another thrilling and intense match between these two equally skilled fighters. Taylor won with a score of 95-94 on all three judges' cards, though the result sparked some debate. Serrano suffered a severe cut over her right eye due to an accidental headbutt during the sixth round. Taylor received two warnings for reckless use of her head, and she had a point taken away in the eighth round.

Serrano, known for her courage, passion, and determination, would have made a deserving champion. However, Taylor demonstrated remarkable strength and skill to come out on top. The champion’s close-range fighting was the finest of her career, despite the loud boos from the American audience that accompanied her win.

In the key supporting match to the highly promoted fight between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson, the rematch between Serrano and Taylor stood out as the most important bout of a memorable evening. Their first encounter in April 2022 was a legendary clash, often regarded as one of the finest fights ever staged at Madison Square Garden, so expectations for a repeat performance were understandably low. At 36 and 38 years old, respectively, Serrano and Taylor are nearing the twilight of their impressive careers. However, they once again displayed remarkable passion and determination, producing a fight that will be remembered.

Serrano entered the arena surrounded by the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, sporting a bullet-proof vest to signal her preparedness for battle. Taylor approached the ring with a deliberate and focused stride, as if she wanted to absorb every ounce of significance from this experience. With the possibility of limited moments like these remaining for both her and Serrano, they each appeared incredibly focused before the first bell rang.

Their initial hesitance quickly transformed into a series of challenging exchanges. Towards the end of the first round, Serrano delivered a powerful left hook that shook Taylor, leaving her momentarily stunned as she leaned back against the ropes.

Serrano kept a sharp and consistent pace with her punches, but in the third round, Taylor began to find her stride. She combined her boxing skills with smooth movement, effectively countering Serrano's aggressive onslaught. In the fourth round, Taylor charged in, causing a cut above Serrano's right eye when they clashed heads. While Taylor was gaining the upper hand in the exchanges, the situation escalated in the next round when Taylor ducked low, resulting in a more severe head collision. Blood flowed from the deepening cut on Serrano's face, and she appeared worried as the referee momentarily halted the match to assess the injury. Despite the severity of the cut, she was cleared to continue fighting.

Right before the eighth round concluded, Taylor received another warning for using her head too much and lost a point. During the break, the full extent of the severe damage to Serrano’s eye was displayed on the big screen, prompting the crowd to jeer at Taylor.

Serrano edged out the ninth in yet another tight round. However, the final round took a harsher turn. It turned into an intense battle, with both fighters giving their all in a frantic bid for victory. The crowd's cheers reached a peak as the punches were exchanged in rapid succession. Serrano delivered some sharp combinations, but Taylor continually retaliated and ultimately claimed the brutally decisive round.

The scores were announced in an atmosphere filled with intense anticipation, and a tie was the minimum outcome that both of these outstanding fighters had earned.

Serrano has claimed world championships in seven different weight classes, an impressive feat that also highlights the limited pool of top female boxers. She stepped up in weight once again to face Taylor, who has significantly advanced women’s boxing more than anyone else. Both fighters are exceptional, but the judges awarded the victory to Taylor, whose enduring passion for the sport is rivaled only by Serrano, her incredible adversary. Both Taylor and Serrano are titans in the boxing world, and it's certain they will continue their captivating rivalry with a third match next year.