One of the most compelling and historically significant rivalries in modern boxing is set for its likely conclusion. Undisputed junior welterweight champion Katie Taylor is poised to face Amanda Serrano for a third time, returning to the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City for a rubber match that promises to be another chapter in their storied head-to-head saga.
This bout is far more than just another title defense; it represents the culmination of a rivalry that has transcended the sport itself. Their first meeting in 2022 was groundbreaking, marking the first time a women`s fight headlined The Garden, hallowed ground for combat sports. That initial clash was an instant classic, a back-and-forth war that ultimately saw Taylor emerge victorious via a split decision, a verdict debated by some.
The subsequent rematch, held in November, maintained the intensity and close scoring, with Taylor again securing a narrow points victory (95-94 on all three judges` cards). While controversy, including since-retracted foul allegations from Serrano`s camp, briefly clouded the aftermath, Taylor`s record against Serrano stands at a clear 2-0 going into the trilogy.
Despite holding the advantage, Taylor, ranked No. 2 pound-for-pound by ESPN (with Serrano at No. 3), made it clear she actively sought this third encounter. In her own words, she wanted “as big a fight as possible” and recognized that, even after two wins, Serrano remained the biggest test and the most significant opponent in women`s boxing. It was, by Taylor`s account, a fight she desired, even if not strictly necessary for her legacy or championship status.
Taylor, a pioneer who once had to disguise herself to compete in her youth when opportunities for girls were non-existent, embodies the dramatic progress women`s boxing has made. Her rivalry with Serrano has been a key catalyst in this transformation. Their high-profile clashes have led to unprecedented visibility, seven-figure paydays once unthinkable in the women`s game, and have inspired a new generation of female fighters to pursue the sport at the highest levels.
Both fighters acknowledge the unique dynamic of their pairing. Despite the fierce competition in the ring, a mutual respect underpins their interactions. Taylor notes that they “get the best out of each other,” pushing limits and showcasing heart, skill, and resilience qualities often celebrated in legendary trilogies like Ali-Frazier or Gatti-Ward. The comparison to such historic rivalries highlights the immense impact Taylor and Serrano have had on elevating the profile and perceived value of women`s boxing.
The upcoming fight at MSG, promoted as a blockbuster event featuring numerous other title contests, is a testament to this growth. It signals a desire within the sport for women`s bouts to consistently headline major cards and attract significant audiences, a reality built on the foundation laid by fighters like Taylor and Serrano.
As these two titans prepare to step into the squared circle once more, the stakes are incredibly high. For Taylor, it`s about solidifying her dominance in the rivalry and defending her undisputed crown. For Serrano, it`s a final opportunity to overturn the previous results and claim victory against her greatest foe. Regardless of the outcome, the trilogy stands as a landmark achievement, showcasing the pinnacle of women`s boxing and cementing the legacies of two exceptional athletes who dared to dream beyond the limitations of the past.
Ellis Thorne 
Percy Harlow