Not ranting Ronda Rousey – Hearn heralds humble honourable hero Katie Taylor

Rambunctious, rowdy, rakish, Ronda Rousey all things Katie Taylor deliberately is not and that’s what makes her a star claims Eddie Hearn.

The Matchroom boss suggests Taylor has the talent and profile to near justify diva behaviour but claims her deliberate avoidance of the spotlight makes her shine all the brighter.

As a promoter Hearn would be forgiven for wanting the fighter, who fights Delfine Persoon for the right to be call undisputed lightweight champion of the world in New York tonight, to be somewhat more brash and vocal.

History would suggest a in your face Taylor would draw a bigger crowd and thus make the promoter more money.

However, the Bray native has binned the idea of trash talk and for a sports person of such talent if incredibly humble and Hearn loves her for that.

Indeed, he believes that humility and even honourable approach aligned with unique talent ironically makes her standout from the crowd.

“She could be a bigger star but it’s endearing [she doesn’t try to be],” he said.

“That’s part of her qualities and her attraction; she’s this quiet little girl who hides away and lives like a monk to achieve what she wants to achieve.

“She could be like the Ronda Rouseys of this world, but she’s not interested in talking rubbish and cheap publicity stunts, and that’s one of the reasons we love her. If she did she could fill this place on her own.

“She’s turned down sponsorship deals and turned down media opportunities, but I admire that because that’s what she’s about,” he adds before praising her dedication and drive.

“She’s my favourite fighter, because I’ve never met anyone more driven and single-minded. She’ll do exactly what she wants to do; her whole life revolves around boxing and she won’t do anything that gets in the way of her boxing or her training.”

Hearn stresses Taylor’s shunning of fame and the spotlight hasn’t stopped Olympic medal winner becoming a draw. In fact he points out she is a show stealing crowd pleaser.

“The atmosphere in the arena will be phenomenal. When she fights now the numbers are huge; she’s selling tickets; everyone in Ireland’s watching. We’re underestimating the draw of Katie Taylor; every time she’s boxed in America she’s stolen the show, and she may well do it again on Saturday.”