Katie Taylor is four time Irish champion, but has literally won each of her four titles on the scales.

No opponent has ever weighed in against the Irish sporting legend and the World number 1 has been crowned best in Ireland without having to fight.

It seems a handy way to add to a substantial list of accolades, but not ideal for Taylor. The Bray BC not only prefers to win her titles in the ring, but knows the benefit of competitive action.

This weekend the female fight sensation will get her wish and will have to earn her crown in the ring as she takes on Shauna O’Keeffe in a historic decider.

“I’m looking forward to actually boxing for the title this year – it’s been a long time coming,” said Taylor in a series of media interviews promoting the Championships in recent days.

“It’s something I’ve wanted for years, to get a bit of competition in the National championships and I haven’t boxed since the European Games so it’ll be good to get a fight under my belt.

“I need to stay busy and get a few fights,” she said. “I definitely don’t like being out of the ring for so long.”

The World number 1 is obvious favourite going into the clash with the 21 year old Tipperary prospect, but claims she is taking nothing for granted ahead of the lightweight decider.

“I’m delighted to get the opportunity to box for an Irish title and I’ll be taking absolutely nothing for granted,” said Taylor, who created history at the National Stadium in 2001 when she fought Alanna Audley-Murphy in the first officially IABA-sanctioned women’s bout in Ireland.