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Katie Taylor promises that “this is just the start” ahead of first World Title fight

Katie Taylor [6(4)-0] will fight for her first professional World title next month, but the Bray lightweight has pledged that it will only be the start.

The Wicklow fighter, the number one-ranked fighter with the WBA, will challenge Argentine champion Anahi Esther Sanchez [17(9)-2(1)] for the black belt.

The bout will take place on the Joshua-Pulev heavyweight world title undercard at the Principality Stadium on Saturday October 28th.

A pro less than a year, the assault on world honours has come early for Taylor – although, even so, there had been a sense of frustration in recent months, with the Irishwoman looking levels above her opponents.

There is certainly a feeling that Sanchez will not be ‘the ultimate’ for Taylor, and the 31 year old has ambitions of world domination and history-making rather than becoming ‘just’ a world champion.

Speaking today on Sky Sports News after the announcement of her fight, Taylor outlined how “I do want to make history in the sport, so this is just the start of it.”

“Ever since I turned pro I’ve wanted to be involved in big fights and big shows and this is the start of many world title fights, I hope.

“I definitely feel like I’m ready. I’ve been working really hard and I’ve got a great team of people around me.”

“I’m obviously very, very excited about it, This is something I’ve waited for since I turned professional.”

When asked whether the Argentinian, who previously held the IBF super featherweight title, was her toughest opponent to date, Taylor responded: “without a doubt.”

‘La Indiecita’ won the title just last Saturday, stopping Cecilia Sofia Mena on cuts in the sixth round of their title fight in San Miguel, and Taylor added that “this opponent Sanchez is very, very experienced. She has a great record as well.”

“She’s had more world title fights than I’ve had fights really in the pro game so it is going to be a very tough challenge.”

“I’m definitely up against a tough opponent – she’s a two-weight world champion – but I feel like I’m ready and I can’t wait for it.”

gym trition

frayne carpentry

Joe O'Neill

Reporting on Irish boxing the past five years. Work has appeared on irish-boxing.com, Boxing News, the42.ie, and local and national media. Provide live ringside updates, occasional interviews, and special features on the future of Irish boxing. email: joneill6@tcd.ie

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