Jack Catterall Reignites Calls for a Josh Taylor Rematch
One of the most intense rivalries in this sport is between former undisputed junior welterweight champion Josh “The Tartan Tornado” Taylor (19-1, 13 KOs) and top contender Jack “El Gato” Catterall (28-1, 13 KOs). Catterall desperately wants a rematch with Taylor. But is that a wise move for Catterall at this point in his career?
Catterall is coming off an easy unanimous decision victory over three-division champion Jorge Linares on October 21 in Liverpool, England. Following his win, Catterall reiterated his desire to get his pound of flesh at the former world champion.
“Taylor, where are you? Let’s have it, you shithouse.”
They previously fought in February 2022, with Taylor winning by a controversial split decision. A rematch was set for February 2023, but Taylor pulled out due to injury. Instead of rescheduling a rematch, Taylor went on to fight and lose his WBO title to Teofimo Lopez in June 2023. The contempt by Catterall towards The Tartan Tornado is personal and goes down to his soul.
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But Taylor’s standing dipped following his defeat to Lopez, and The Tartan Tornado has suggested that his future is at 147. Team Catterall said they’re willing to engage in a second fight with Taylor at a catchweight. However, there are significant fights waiting for Catterall at 140.
Catterall is signed with Matchroom Promotions, which also the home of reigning IBF junior welterweight champion Regis Prograis, who has an upcoming title December 9 title defense against unified lightweight champion Devin Haney.
After signing with Matchroom in March 2023, El Gato went on record saying that he wants the big fights with the elites at 140. While one can understand his desire for revenge, the reality is that a fight against the winner of Prograis versus Haney has more incentive and would garner him more respect in the boxing community.
When you’re on the precipice of another world title shot, you should go for it. At this point, cooler heads may need to step in and direct Catterall away from Taylor.
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