Katie Taylor has successfully defended her WBA World Lightweight title tonight in what was undoubtedly the toughest bout of her career.
The judges scored it 97-92, 97-92 and 98-91 yet it was not as straightforward as that may suggest. The dogged Jessica McCaskill refused to go away and dragged Taylor into a real scrap. For the first time in her pro career, Taylor was rocked by a huge McCaskill haymaker and was docked a point for holding, but ultimately her superior hand-speed secured her the unanimous victory.
Taylor started brightly, going to work with her jab and keeping McCaskill at distance. However, it soon became apparent she was up against a brave opponent and both fighters became embroiled in several scrappy exchanges.
Soon both boxers were head-hunting as punches became looser. Taylor's corner repeatedly encouraged her to get back to boxing and in the latter rounds she did so. Ultimately she reigned supreme as the significantly sharper puncher.
It was the most physical fight of her career, a fact Taylor confirmed after the bout. Regardless, she endured and emerged as the classy boxer she is.
Next comes 2018 and the matter of unifying the world titles, a feat she is certainly capable of.
