Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn says he believes Katie Taylor will eventually fight at Ireland’s biggest sporting venue, Croke Park. However, he added that despite negotiations in recent months, Taylor’s next home match was unlikely to be played at GAA headquarters.
The boxing legend is scheduled to fight in Ireland in May, likely at the 3Arena in Dublin. Hearn said his preferred opponent for Taylor would be Chantel Cameron, but no specific plans have been disclosed.
“The plan is to play against Ireland in May and we want it to be Chantelle Cameron,” Hearn said. “Obviously we’ve got to make the numbers work for Katie and Chantelle. I don’t think it’s going to be Croke Park, but we’re going back to Ireland for a big show in May.”
Taylor and Cameron fought twice last year at 3Arena, with the Co Wicklow native losing to the British woman in May but winning in November, making her the undisputed world champion in two weight classes. Ta.
Hearn said of the 3Arena venue: “I think we had a great two nights there. I wouldn’t mind going back there again. I’d love to get out, but time is moving fast and I just want to make sure I get there.” It was trapped.
“It depends on the opponent. With Chantel, there’s a chance we can go to a bigger stadium. If not, 3Arena might work as well.”
However, Croke Park is scheduled to host the Leinster Gaelic Football final and a Bruce Springsteen concert in May. Mr Hearn said Matchroom had had “very positive discussions” with the venue, but cost was an issue.
“Do they want to hold a big boxing event? Maybe. They want to help Katie Taylor, and I appreciate that conversation. I don’t think it will happen in May, but she’s a big boxing event. I think we’ll be fighting there before the end,” Hearn said. “I talked to Katie. I’m definitely not giving up, but we need to plan our dates effectively.”
Amanda Serrano has also expressed interest in facing Taylor for a second time after missing a scheduled rematch last year due to injury. The Puerto Rican fighter fought Taylor at Madison Square Garden in April 2022, with Taylor winning by split decision.
Hahn said he believed the two sides would collide again. “This is an inevitable battle. Will it happen in May? Maybe, maybe not,” he said.
“Katie Taylor’s three biggest fights are Amanda Serrano, Alicia Baumgardner and Chantel Cameron, and I think Katie will fight all of them before the end of her career.”
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