Hearn challenges Katie Taylor to prove World title readiness on Joshua-Klitschko undercard

Katie Taylor [4(2)-0] hasn’t taken long to establish herself as one of the most exciting female fighters on the planet, but now it’s time to prove she is World ready, according to Eddie Hearn.

There are those who have suggested the ground breaking amateur is that talented she could have won a World title in her first fight – and since her pro debut and increased Sky exposure, the London 2012 gold medal winner and five time amateur champ has won plaudits as an accomplished fighter rather than female boxer.

In these four fights Taylor has accounted for four relatively strong opponents in comfortable fashion.

This day next week however, the Bray boxer makes the step up to ten rounds and a step up in opposition against Nina Meinke [5(2)-0] on the Anthony Joshua v Wladimir Klitschko undercard.

Promoter Hearn claims German Meinke will prove Taylor’s toughest test to date and the Matchroom boss suggests the size of the step up is fitting of the massive sold out Wembley Stadium card and PPV fight night.

“This is a huge step up for Katie on a massive night of boxing,” said Hearn.

Hearn also believes the World title eliminator and WBA Inter-Continental lightweight title fight will provide proof as to whether Taylor is ready to fight for a mooted World title in Ireland this November.

In addition to Sky Box Office, the fight will be shown stateside on both HBO and Showtime, becoming only the third ever card to be aired on both major cable networks – after Lennox Lewis v Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather v Manny Pacquiao.

“No disrespect to her previous opponents but Meinke is on another level and has operated and been victorious on the big stage.”

“In just four fights, Katie has established herself as the most exciting female fighter on the planet but now we get the chance to see if she is ready for the World stage.”