Perfect response to retirement suggestions? Katie Taylor has ‘greatest ever’ plans

The best is yet to come predicts Katie Taylor, a fighter with greatest of all time ambitions.

In just over two years as a pro the Bray fighter has enjoyed massive personal success, unifying the entire lightweight division in just 14 fights.

The former amateur sensation, who has also significantly raised the profile and financial standing of the female fight game, has managed to achieve that success with relative ease, only veteran world champ Delfine Persoon and to a lesser extent now unified world light welterweight champion, Jessica McCaskill asking questions of her in the ring.

However, the 32-year-old is adamant she hasn’t produced her best yet and predicts she will increase the quality as she continues to break new pro ground.

“People haven’t seen the best of me,” Taylor told Radio Ulster’s Sportsound Extra Time.

“It’s been a fantastic journey so far, it’s definitely exceeded my expectations, but the best thing about it is that the best is yet to come.”

There are some, including fellow amateur legend, Michael Carruth, who feel there is nothing left for the undisputed lightweight champion to prove, but Taylor still has burning ambitions.

The six time amateur world champion, who can join Steve Collins and Carl Frampton as Irish two weight world champs with victory over WBO light welterweight world champ Christina Linardatou on Saturday, wants to cement her legacy and wants to be known as the greatest female boxer of all time.

“I want to be the best that I can be and the best female boxer of all time.”

Taylor could tick another box with regard to what American middleweight Claressa Shields calls ‘GWOAT’ status by becoming a two weight world champ – and she can’t wait to add another significant trophy to the most decorated mantle piece in Irish sport.

“I just can’t wait to get into the arena on Saturday night,” said the Bray native.

“I’m definitely living the life of my dreams right now.”

Such is Taylor’s talent that pro success was always likely. However, she is keen to point out she couldn’t have achieved what she has alone.

The Wicklow woman claims her team have played a huge part and paid particular homage to American coach Ross Enamait.

“I feel like I’m working with one of the best coaches in the world right now in Ross Enamait,” said Taylor.

“The work he’s put in with me over the last few months, that’s confidence in itself. Trust and confidence in the coach is absolutely everything I think.

“I have a very small team, but it’s definitely a solid team. They do absolutely everything for me. This week, I only have to focus on the fight itself.

“It’s so important to surround yourself with the right people, especially in this sport, because boxing can be a dark world at times.”