A Champion's Farewell
Katie Taylor will step into the ring for the final time this Saturday, closing a storied career that has seen her become a former Olympic gold medallist and two-weight undisputed champion. The 40-year-old Irish fighter is set to face unbeaten French contender Flora Pili at Croke Park in Dublin, with all four major super-lightweight belts at stake.
Taylor brings the IBF, WBA and WBO titles into the iconic venue, while the vacant WBC strap is also on the line. Pili, who holds a professional record of 12 wins, 0 losses, and 2 knockouts, will aim to become just the second fighter to defeat Taylor, whose record stands at 25 wins, 1 loss, and 6 knockouts. The event is expected to draw around 80,000 fans, a fitting setting for the Irish sporting icon's last appearance.
Sparring Partner's Tribute
In the build-up to the bout, Jennifer Miranda, a 40-year-old boxer with a 12-1 record who has previously challenged Alycia Baumgardner for a world championship, has been in Ireland helping Taylor prepare. Miranda took to Instagram on Sunday to praise Taylor's work ethic, posting: "Incredible work. Brilliant as always, Katie. Now it's time to crown an extraordinary career with the great finale you deserve, at home."
Miranda, who has 100,000 Instagram followers, went on to express her gratitude for the opportunity to spar with Taylor, describing it as "an absolute privilege" and adding, "One last dance. Enjoy every moment and make it unforgettable."
Miranda's tribute underscores the seriousness with which Taylor is approaching her final fight, having sparred with a competitor of her calibre.
Fight Details
Taylor vs Pili will take place on Saturday, 5 September, at Croke Park. The main card is due to begin at 7pm BST (11am PT / 1pm CT / 2pm ET), with main-event ring walks expected at approximately 10pm BST (2pm PT / 4pm CT / 5pm ET). The fight and its undercard will stream live on DAZN, with Ireland's national broadcaster RTE also showing the action.
Bookmakers have installed Taylor as a heavy favourite, with Betway listing her at 1/20, Pili at 10/1, and a draw at 20/1.
The undercard features a welterweight bout between Paddy Donovan and Tyrone McKenna, as well as contests involving Taylor Bevan, Joe McGrail, David Allen, Molly McCann, Paul Ryan, Adam Olaniyan, and Bobbi Flood.