Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano will clash for a third time at Madison Square Garden in what promises to be a defining chapter in one of boxing’s most compelling rivalries. Although Taylor leads 2-0 in their head-to-head battles, the matchup still carries the energy and excitement of a fresh showdown.
Their first meeting in 2022 was historic. It marked the first time two female fighters headlined at Madison Square Garden, selling out the 20,000-capacity venue and delivering a ten-round thriller that ended in a narrow decision for Taylor. Fans immediately demanded a rematch.
Two years later, they met again in Texas. Taylor once more edged a decision, though the outcome divided opinion. Many felt Serrano had done enough to win, despite battling through a nasty cut above her eye. That same injury could become a factor once again, depending on how the action unfolds.
So, why a third fight when Taylor already holds two wins? For one, the stakes are higher than ever. Backed by major promoters and streaming giants, both fighters are earning career-high purses. But beyond the financials, the duo consistently delivers drama and high-level action. Their styles mesh perfectly, making every round an edge-of-the-seat affair.
This bout carries a sense of sporting legacy, placing Taylor and Serrano in the pantheon of legendary trilogies. It echoes the likes of Muhammad Ali vs Joe Frazier or Arturo Gatti vs Micky Ward, while standing tall among iconic female rivalries across sports—from Evert vs Navratilova in tennis to Fraser-Pryce vs Thompson-Herah in track.
Despite being the defending champion and holding all the belts, Taylor enters the ring as the perceived underdog in this latest bout. Serrano has secured several advantages—walking out second, setting the fight at 136 pounds (slightly below the light-welterweight limit), and playing the “home” fighter in New York. These changes may be more about Serrano seeking psychological comfort than gaining a strategic edge.
The weigh-in showed just how charged the atmosphere is. Serrano made a late appearance, seemingly sending a message. Taylor, ever composed, dismissed the mind games and questioned her opponent’s need for special treatment.
Both fighters are 36, but neither appears to have lost their edge. Taylor is known for her composure and ability to adapt mid-fight, having shown resilience and tactical sharpness in their previous meetings. Serrano, renowned for her power, may look to vary her approach this time, potentially favoring finesse over force.
However, whether a different strategy will finally tilt the scales in her favor remains to be seen. Taylor’s will to win and ability to rise to the moment are unmatched. Still, fatigue and time are factors—perhaps this will be one fight too many.
Whatever unfolds, both will leave everything in the ring. This isn’t just a boxing match; it’s the culmination of a rivalry that has elevated women’s boxing to new heights. One final dance. One last round in a saga that has already made history.
