Taylor vs Pili: Boxing World Pays Tribute to 'One of the Best to Ever Do It'
BBC Sport reports on Katie Taylor's final boxing match, where she defeated Flora Pili at Croke Park, ending her career with a remarkable record.
Some Notable Reactions:
- Caroline Dubois: "One of the best to ever do it," Dubois, a unified lightweight champion, said on X.
- Claressa Shields: "Congrats Katie. Now ride off into the sunset. You deserve it all," declared the American "Greatest Woman of All Time."
- Alycia Baumgardner: Describing Taylor as "a trailblazer who helped set the stage for all of us," Baumgardner, the super-featherweight champion, celebrated her legacy.
Key Takeaways from the Text:
- Historic Career: Taylor retired with 26 wins from 27 professional contests, Olympic gold, and three undisputed title triumphs across two divisions.
- Adulation: Her relationship with Irish fans was unique, as described by Carl Frampton, who noted her "adulation from everybody."
- Unmatched Exit: Tony Bellew described her farewell as "one of the most remarkable exits the sport had seen," highlighting her status as "the greatest champion ever."
- Final Moments: The final 20 seconds of her fight against Pili were particularly memorable for showcasing Taylor's signature combination punching.