After winning gold in London nearly four years ago, there was speculation that Katie Taylor might decide to cash in and go pro.
That was an option she chose not to take, instead deciding to remain amateur and attempt to win her second Olympic gold medal later this year.
Her chances of making that happen took a blow last month when she lost her first fight in five years at the European Olympic qualifiers. Defeat came at the hands of Azerbaijani fighter Yana Alekseevna.
Qualification for Taylor is still a live possiblity. She's currently competing at the World Championships. A semi-final place would be enough to secure a place in Rio along with the six Irish boxers already heading to Brazil.
If Taylor decided to call it a day tomorrow, she would finish her boxing career as a wealthy woman. The decision to stay amateur has proved lucrative, very likely a whole lot more so than if she had decided to become professional.
According to the Irish Independent, the 29-year-old's KT Sports Ltd has accumulated profits of €1.2 million. That's up €250,000 over the last 12 months - not bad for an amateur.
Taylor's sponsor friendly image is obviously plays a key part in her earnings. Sky, Bank of Ireland and Lucozade Sport have all been keen to associate their brands with the Bray woman.
Of course, in terms of future earnings, another gold medal this summer would be ideal.
There's also the possibility of a book, which would be a serious money spinner. That would hopefully shed some light on the relationship between Taylor and her father. Since November, Pete Taylor no longer stands in her corner during fights.
Picture credit: Cody Glenn / SPORTSFILE
