Taylor Reflects On Career Ahead Of Farewell Fight

Katie Taylor says her final fight will bring only joy, not sadness, as she prepares to step into the ring at Croke Park this Saturday.

The Irish champion told Matchroom Boxing she's walking away from the sport with a heart full of gratitude. "The emotions I'm going to be feeling fight night are not sad emotions, they're very, very happy emotions and I'm very, very grateful," she said, per Bad Left Hook. "My dream venue, at home, this really is the stuff of dreams."

Taylor Keeps Eyes On Pili Despite Sentiment

Taylor acknowledged that opponent Flora Pili arrives in Dublin with plans to wreck the farewell party. "It's a great opportunity for her, isn't it? She's coming to spoil the day," Taylor said.

When asked whether she considers herself the best female fighter of all time, Taylor deflected. "I think that's for other people to say, but I certainly have never ever ducked any opponents throughout my whole career," she said. "I've tried to fight the best. I've tried to put on some amazing performances, I've tried to elevate the sport."

The bout marks the final chapter for a fighter who transformed women's boxing over two decades, from Olympic gold to undisputed champion. First bell is Saturday at Croke Park.

Reported via:

• Bad Left Hook — ‘Heart full of gratitude’: Katie Taylor reflects on her storied career