The chances of Katie Taylor's next fight being held in Croke Park has been given a major boost after recent comments by the stadium's director.
Ever since her historic bout against Amanda Serrano, discussions have been in place for a Croke Park homecoming for the Bray boxer.
While that couldn't materialise in her win over Karen Carabajal in October, discussions since have been fully focused on bringing her next title defence to Croke Park.
In one of the most positives updates in discussions so far, Croke Park Stadium Director Peter McKenna has revealed that early next summer is being lined up as a possible timeline for this blockbuster event.
We're looking at dates earlier in the year. We're quite a way along the road in the talking with Brian Peters [Taylor's manager] and Matchroom [her promoter].
It could be early summer, that's the time. What we do is we say that we have these dates available, and this is how it would work from our perspective. That job has been done. And now we need to make sure Matchroom, and Brian Peters can make all the other things come together."
While this is the most encouraging update so far on a possible bout in Croke Park, there is still a long way to go.
Ireland's unpredictable climate creates a number of obstacles, while Eddie Hearn has expressed the need for government assistance in order for this to happen.
There is also the issue of who Taylor may fight next, with Amanda Serrano scheduled to defend her featherweight title in February, it could be a quick turnaround to rematch Taylor in May/June.
However, McKenna has encouraged those involved in discussions to put their case forward to ensure Croke Park can host this historical event.
The Minister for Sport has been supportive but he's not, nor should he, write a blank cheque. He'll want to see value in this.
Any messaging I would have said to Matchroom, or Brian Peters would be to put a compelling case together and I think you are pushing an open door."
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