Katie Taylor Keen to Not Overlook Karen Cruz Carabajal
Undisputed women’s lightweight champ Katie Taylor (21-0, 6 KOs) returns to the ring on October 29. She defends her belts against unbeaten Argentinian Karen Cruz Carabajal (19-0, 2 KOs) at Wembley Arena in London, England, on DAZN.
The last time the lightweight queen stepped into the ring, she won an epic split-decision battle over the current unified featherweight champion Amanda Serrano (43-2-1, 30 KOs) in April 2022. A highly anticipated match that took place at the famed Madison Square Garden in New York City, it exceeded the pre-fight hype. So good was the contest that many fans wanted to see an immediate rematch.
But it was not to be. Taylor’s promoter, Matchroom, made an offer for Taylor-Serrano II in Ireland, the home country of the undisputed champ. Unfortunately, it fizzled out at the negotiation table, to the disappointment of many.
REMAINING FOCUSED
While somewhat downcast by not fighting Serrano next, Taylor understands she must overcome the upcoming task. In this sport, you can’t afford to overlook anyone. A true professional in and out of the ring, Taylor understands this more than anyone. During an interview on the DAZN Boxing show, the pride of Bray, Ireland talked about why the fight with Carabajal is so critical.
“These other fights in between are super important, as well. These fights are preparation for the big fights. I know that my next opponent, she’s not recognized by anyone.
For me, she’s an unbeaten fighter. She’s going to be a tough fight. They all raise their game against me. So, we’re going to see the best of my opponent in the next fight.
So, I never find it difficult to motivate myself for these kinds of fights. I am preparing for an excellent fight […] these fights are all important in preparation for these big mega-fights.”
Taylor understands her position in the sport. Her fight with Serrano paid off handsomely in the ring and her bank account, as her total earnings exceeded $1 million. A rematch stands to earn more rewards. To get that opportunity, she must not let off the gas come October 29.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
