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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Ben Davies

Katie Taylor plots US return against Amanda Serrano or Jessica McCaskill

Katie Taylor has promised to return to America and is eyeing an undisputed clash with Jessica McCaskill or Amanda Serrano.

The Irish star is currently ranked as the No.1 pound-for-pound fighter in female boxing and will return to the ring against Jennifer Han in Leeds on Saturday.

The 35-year-old holds an undefeated record of 18 victories going into her undisputed title defence, with the likes of Delfine Persoon and McCaskill already on her resume.

And although Taylor is relishing another fight in front of a home crowd, she has set her sights on challenging the sport's top names in America next year.

"I would love that actually, the last fights have been in the UK which of course has been incredible," she said.

Katie Taylor defended her undisputed titles last time out in a tough match with Tasha Jonas (Mark Robinson Photography/Matchroom)

"But I would love to have a few more fights in the US in the future definitely, it will certainly be on the radar.

"I have enjoyed fighting in America so much, and I believe that the names such as Serrano and McCaskill will be perfect to make my return to America."

Taylor is already one of the most successful female atheletes in the sport ever, currently holding all the belts at lightweight but the 35-year-old has acknowledged that she hasn't "got forever" in boxing.

But the undisputed lightweight champion promises to "focus" on keeping all of her own belts and fulfilling defences, while giving a preview of her upcoming fight with Han.

“I think the last 12 months have been fantastic for me personally. I’m still sitting here as the Undisputed Champion, 18-0 with some fantastic performances and some amazing fights under my belt," Taylor said.

"The fights I’ve been in have elevated women’s boxing to another level. This is the pinnacle of professional boxing – holding all of the belts, that’s what everyone in professional boxing wants to do. Everyone’s dream is to become the undisputed champion.

“I’m expecting the toughest fight from Jennifer. She has a lot of amateur experience and she’s a very technical fighter. She’s a six-time World Champion. She was my No.1 Mandatory as well so I had to take the fight.

"These girls have stepped up – they’ve boxed beyond themselves, they have raised their game against me. I’m expecting a very very tough fight and I’m going to be prepared like I have been for every single fight I’ve had over the last few years.

Despite achieving everything seemingly available to Taylor in the sport, she is continuing to campaign around the country and is "delighted" at the possibility of returning to Leeds.

The Irish star last fought in front of fans almost two years ago against Christina Linardatou, and has revealed her memories of fighting in front of a packed house.

“My father was born and raised in Leeds, so we all grew up as Leeds United fans," said Taylor.

"There are still a few Leeds United fans out there! I’m really excited to fight in Leeds and in front of so many fans. It’s kind of like a second home to me so I just can’t wait.

"It’s going to be so exciting boxing in front of 20,000 people. The atmosphere is going to be insane. Leeds fans are very passionate and loud.

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