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Katie Taylor beats Amanda Serrano via contested split-decision in epic battle with both fighters agreeing to rematch
KATIE TAYLOR has already agreed to rematch Amanda Serrano after retaining all of her lightweight world titles with a sensational split decision.
Ireland’s 35-year-old boxing icon defeated the seven-weight world champion at New York’s Madison Square Garden, in what was billed as the biggest fight in female boxing history.
EPAKatie Taylor celebrates her historic victory[/caption]
EPABoth women fought valiantly at a packed Madison Square Garden[/caption]
AFPTaylor, 35, did Ireland proud[/caption]
And the valiant victor – who edged it 97-93, 96-93 and and 94-96 to win promoter Eddie Hearn a £1million side bet with US rival promoters Jake Paul – snapped up the offer of a rerun.
She roared: “Let’s do it again Amanda. What a fighter Amanda Serrano is.
“I think we are both winners here – look at what we have both done – sold out Madison Square Garden.
“The biggest fight in female boxing history and both of us have broken so many barriers over our whole careers.
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“I knew going into it I was going to be in the trenches at some stage.
She’s a phenomenal fighter, a great, great person.
“I have the heart to go with the skill and I knew I was going to be able to come through.
“What a fight, what a win, what a night.”
Serrano, 33, started well and wobbled the Wicklow warrior a couple of times but the London 2012 Olympic golden girl battled back into the brawl.
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And the Puerto Rico ace did not argue the close call and instead celebrated taking part in a groundbreaking showdown.
“Katie is a great champion,” Serrano said.
“She’s undefeated and undisputed, I’m truly honoured to share the ring.
“Women can sell, women can fight and women can put on a hell of a show.”
Taylor poses with promoter Eddie Hearn after the boutSportsfile
EPAJake Paul is determined for his fighter Serrano to get a rematch[/caption]