Katie Taylor is a fighter. She’s a scrapper.
She’s someone who wins fights by dogging it out, as well as being more skilful than her opponent.
She wins fights and international medals by the strength of her character, and by being simply better than 99% of her opponents.
But everyone suffers a loss, even the best, and the Bray native is experiencing something her brain has not had to process in five years.
The Olympic gold medallist lost to Yana Alekseevna of Azerbaijan on Friday afternoon, in a European Olympic qualifier semi-final, and now faces a big task to try and reach the Rio games this summer.
It was her first loss since 2011, but there is one certainty; she will be back
I know it's not what she'd want..but I'd love to give #KatieTaylor a big welcome home now. Remember this in 2012? pic.twitter.com/AXwpOQS100
— Des Cahill (@sportsdes) April 15, 2016
However after suffering just the eighth loss of career, the 30-year-old has vowed to return stronger than ever, and to make up for her loss at the World Championships in May, which could be her last chance at securing a spot at this summer’s Olympic Games.
In a statement this afternoon, the Bray native explained to RTE that she is determined to do her very best next time out.
“I’m obviously very disappointed. I always go to these competitions with the aim of bringing back a gold medal.”
“The loss came at the wrong time for me today but she’s a fantastic boxer and you can’t take it away from her. She deserved it today but I’ll come again.”
It wasn't my day today. I'll come again. Thanks everyone for your prayers and support. Much appreciated.
— Katie Taylor (@KatieTaylor) April 15, 2016
