It appears less and less likely that the third fight in Katie Taylor's trilogy with Chantelle Cameron will take place at Croke Park.
Speaking this weekend, Hearn implied that Croke Park was no longer a runner for Katie Taylor's fight in January. After defeating Chantelle Cameron at the 3Arena in November, talk immediately turned to completing the trilogy with Chantelle Cameron at Croke Park this year.
SEE ALSO: Michael Conlan Unhappy Over Rumoured Manny Pacquiao Olympic Exemption
SEE ALSO: Five Irish Sports Stars Who Thought Outside The Box
Matchroom CEO Eddie Hearn, Katie Taylor's promoter, appealed to the Irish government to contribute towards funds for the fight, due to an increased cost of security. Negotiations were due to begin between Hearn and Croke Park in January, however Hearn's comments at the weekend in London make it seem unlikely that Croke Park is in the mix. While talking to Boxing Social, he implied that a return to the 3Arena might be on the cards but also touted venues on the east coast of the US, and Las Vegas, for Katie Taylor's return to the ring in May:
"Talks go on and on and on and eventually you're in February now and Katie's next fight is in May. So we have to make a move. There is a chance we could return to the 3Arena. There is a chance she could fight internationally as well. For us we still like the idea of fighting Chantelle Cameron. That could be at the 3Arena. We'd like to do that outdoors. You have to lock something in at some point. We've had two incredible nights at the 3Arena. It could be three."
The chat starts around 11.00 minutes below.
Vegas for Katie Taylor?
Hearn also implied that Taylor has received several offers from international venues, and discussed her worldwide acclaim:
"We've had offers from the around the world. There is a chance she could fight internationally and of course there is America. A fight for Katie Taylor in America is a huge thing, particularly on the east coast. She also has aspiration to fight in Las Vegas. You could take her to Boston, Philadelphia, New York. She sells out everywhere. She has a lot of options."
It's a pity - but perhaps no real surprise - that Croke Park will likely not happen.
