If Katie Taylor’s amateur success translates to the professional scene, her upcoming opponents could be in for a tough time.
The London 2012 Olympic gold medallist has made the decision to leave amateur boxing behind and she’s been snapped up immediately by Matchroom Boxing, with her pro debut set for November 26.
After a disappointing time in Rio, Taylor will make her first foray into the professional world next month at Wembley and the fight is set to be broadcast on Sky Sports, according to a press release from the broadcaster on Thursday.
An opponent has yet to be named for the Bray boxer but it will be a tough ask for whoever is selected to welcome the 30-year-old to the pro ranks.
“When I first dreamt of Olympic gold, female boxing was practically unknown,” said Taylor. “Now because of my journey and the incredible supporters who came along with me, female boxing is as much part of the fabric of the Olympics as its male counterpart.
“Now I want to do the same for the professional sport and I hope those who have supported me along the way will come along with me. I’m excited for the road ahead.”
Excited to announce the signing of 6 time European champ,5 time World champ & Olympic gold medalist @KatieTaylor – debut Nov 26 @SkySports 💥 pic.twitter.com/qomtLiEyxx
— Eddie Hearn (@EddieHearn) October 27, 2016
And Taylor has no intention of slowly wading into this new stage of her life. She is jumping right in at the deep end, with a second fight already scheduled for the undercard of fellow Olympic gold medallist Anthony Joshua’s IBF World Heavyweight title defence at the Manchester Arena in December.
“Katie is an outstanding boxer and this is great news for her and all the fans who have followed her incredible career,” Sky Sports Head of Boxing Adam Smith said. “She has shown what an inspiration she is to young people through her role as a Sky Sports Living For Sport ambassador, and we’re very excited for her first professional fight live on Sky Sports in November.”
Colm Parkinson is joined by Paul Rouse for a heated debate about Sky Sports’ five-year GAA deal and an exclusive chat with AFL star Zach Tuohy on the new GAA Hour.
