A Grand Farewell in Dublin
Katie Taylor concluded her distinguished boxing career as a three-time undisputed world champion, receiving a memorable send-off at Croke Park. The event, marked by celebration and music, saw the 40-year-old boxer defeat Flora Pili on points. Taylor added the WBC belt to her existing WBA, WBO, and IBF light-welterweight titles.
In front of an audience of 80,000 fans, Taylor delivered a final performance showcasing the footwork, speed, and sharp pressure fighting that have defined her career. She outclassed Pili, an unbeaten French boxer, winning by scores of 100-90, 100-90, and 98-91. Promoter Eddie Hearn praised Taylor as “Ireland’s greatest sportsperson” before she took a final lap of the ring, waving to the crowd and symbolically placing her gloves and belts in the centre of the canvas.
This event marked a fairytale ending for Taylor at her preferred venue, following nearly 25 years in the sport. An Olympic champion, two-weight world champion, and a pioneer in women’s professional boxing, she retires with a record of 26 wins and just one defeat. The night was filled with Irish pride, featuring a vibrant atmosphere and performances by the pop group Westlife, who contributed to the celebratory send-off.
An Unforgettable Night for Irish Sport
The event was significant for Dublin, with approximately 80% of attendees at Croke Park experiencing a boxing event for the first time. They gathered to honour Taylor, who has been credited with elevating women’s sport and inspiring a nation. The crowd size was noted as the sixth largest post-war attendance for a boxing event globally. The stands were adorned with green and white, and tricolours were visible throughout the venue.
Westlife performed ‘World of Our Own’ and ‘You Raise Me Up’, with thousands joining in, their phone lights illuminating the stadium. The atmosphere shifted for an a cappella rendition of ‘Grace’, an Irish ballad associated with the 1916 Easter Rising, followed by the national anthem. Chants of “Ole, Ole, Ole” preceded Taylor’s entrance to ‘All Hail King Jesus’, reflecting her faith. She embraced the moment, stretching her arms wide and singing along as fireworks lit the Dublin sky.
Despite having competed on major boxing stages, including selling out Madison Square Garden, the reception at Croke Park was particularly impactful. Taylor, who turned professional in 2016, began the fight with a quiet first round before asserting her dominance in the second, delivering quick combinations. She consistently outmanoeuvred Pili, making effective use of the two-minute rounds.
Flora Pili, 29, entered the bout with an unbeaten record of 12 contests and had previously held the European title. Despite having little pressure on her, she had not faced an opponent of Taylor’s calibre, and the difference in skill became evident. The celebratory mood continued between rounds as it became clear that Pili would not disrupt the occasion. Notable figures like former world champion Prince Naseem Hamed and UFC star Paddy Pimblett were among those watching ringside.
Pili had a brief strong period in the seventh round, landing a quick flurry, but it did not alter the fight’s trajectory. Croke Park erupted in the final two minutes as Taylor pressed forward, continuing to land punches amidst the roar of the crowd. After the inevitable result was announced, Taylor embraced her mother, trainer, and manager in the ring as ‘Celebration’ played. She took a moment to absorb the reception, stating, “Let me just look around for a second.”
A Lasting Legacy
Taylor has consistently stated that Croke Park would mark the end of her career, and she departs having defeated every professional opponent she faced. Her sole defeat came against Chantelle Cameron in Dublin in 2023, a loss she avenged six months later at the 3Arena to become an undisputed champion in a second weight division. Following the final bell, she expressed gratitude to her family, managing to hold back tears while addressing the crowd.
Known for her reserved nature regarding media interviews, Taylor displayed confidence as she walked around the ring with a microphone, savouring her final moments. She acknowledged the crowd’s long-standing support, referencing their presence at London 2012, through the disappointment of Rio, and into her professional career. Taylor’s legacy is also defined by her trilogy victories against Amanda Serrano, and her impact extends beyond statistics.
Her journey began as a young girl who sometimes disguised herself as a boy to box when girls were not permitted. She played a crucial role in getting the sport sanctioned in Ireland and included in the Olympics, subsequently excelling in both amateur and professional boxing. Her brother-in-law, Trevor McMahon, who founded a gym where Taylor trains, noted that her dedication was always present. McMahon mentioned that the last boxing match at Croke Park was in 1972, featuring Muhammad Ali against Alvin Lewis.
Taylor’s career has inspired many, with one customer, Catherine Hill, remarking that “Every young girl now wants to be a boxer or an athlete.” Laney O’Connell, who lives in Taylor’s childhood neighbourhood, highlighted her normalcy and how she has inspired girls to be active. Anne-Marie McHugh expressed hope that Taylor would enjoy a restful post-boxing life, stating, “She’s earned it.”
Source: bbc.co.uk