Katie Taylor has been crowned the undisputed lightweight champion of the world.
The Irish boxer defeated Belgium’s Delfine Persoon at Madison Square Garden in New York last night after a controversial close call in the final score.
One of the three ringside judges called it at 95-95, while the other two gave it to Katie at 96-94.
“Absolutely incredible” – @KatieTaylor gives me her reaction to becoming the undisputed lightweight champion of the world. #KatieTaylor @RTEsport @rtenews pic.twitter.com/OhN5G7niEH
— Brian O'Donovan (@BrianOD_News) June 2, 2019
Following her victory, Katie said, “This is what I’ve dreamed of since turning pro.
“This was always my ultimate goal. To have all five belts and to make history in my sport, this is what it’s all about.
“This is why I sacrifice so much, why I train so hard.”
The big screen here in Madison Square Garden: “Congratulations Katie Taylor”. She’s the undisputed lightweight champion of the world. #KatieTaylor @RTEsport pic.twitter.com/pr04uCJ9GV
— Brian O'Donovan (@BrianOD_News) June 2, 2019
The Bray woman said she would be open to a rematch following speculation over the close call, though she added that she does have other fights planned.
Speaking about her opponent, Katie said, “I knew it was going to be a very, very tough fight. It was exactly how I see it really, it was a very close fight but we knew we stole some of the earlier rounds and we knew we definitely won the fight.
“Persoon has been a great champion she’s been a long reigning champion for a long time. But that’s what happens when a champion is in against another champion, it’s the best against the best.”
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