Josh Taylor has vowed to set the record straight after rubber stamping another Glasgow showdown with fierce rival Jack Catterall.
The pair will collide on March 4 next year in a return to the Hydro, the scene of the Scot’s controversial points win in May. Taylor admitted his performance was the worst of his career as he narrowly held on to his undisputed light welterweight crown. But the Tartan Tornado has vowed to be back to his best when the foes clash again early in 2023.
Taylor, speaking to Sky Sports, said: “It's no secret the performance I put on the last time was terrible. It was the worst I've ever been. But a lot of that was down to myself, a lack of motivation, a lack of drive, a little bit of complacency was creeping in a bit as well. It's a different approach this time mentally, I'm more switched on and taking it seriously. I don't think I need to change too much tactically-wise, but definitely it'll be a different fight.”
Taylor has been forced to give up three of his four world belts but his WBO title and Ring Magazine strap is expected to be on the line at the Hydro. Catterall insisted the world crown has only been delays and he taunted Taylor as he said: “Not too much turkey, fatboy. See you in the new year.”
The Englishman is out for revenge and said: “For me it's more about fighting Josh and getting the win this time, and proving to the public that it wasn't the case of Taylor having an off night and I do belong at world level. The fight not being an undisputed fight changes things slightly but I've always set out to be world champion and over the last couple of years I've been closing in on that dream.”
Promoter Ben Shalom said: “It’s back at the scene of the crime. And I think it could be one of the most significant fights in British boxing for a long time because of what happened. Josh Taylor could have gone on to other things, but decided, ‘You know what? I’m going to put this wrong right’.
“Fair play to him and Jack Catterall gets the opportunity that I think the whole nation feels like he deserves.”
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