Article by Rick Mohamed

Katie Taylor & Natasha Jonas fought an even match for the first 8 rounds, then Taylor took over & got the win to retain her titles as Queen of the Lightweights

Katie Taylor, Olympic gold medalist for women’s boxing at the London Olympics back in 2012, had faced a young Brit on her way to the gold: Natasha Jonas. Though Taylor won the day, it would soon be apparent that the 2 would embark on a journey, a collision course where they would meet again. 

On May 1, 2021, that’s exactly what happened at AO Arena in Manchester, UK as part of the undercard of the Dereck Chisora vs. Joseph Parker heavyweight Main Event match. 

Many called the fight between these 2 lady warriors the match of the day. Taylor defeated Jonas by decision in 10 rounds for the undisputed ladies lightweight title. The close scores on the judges’ cards proved how hard fought and close this match actually was: 96-94, 96-95, 96-95 unanimous decision for Taylor.

 It was indeed a hard fought win. Taylor started out well, using her speed and accuracy to take a lead. However, as the fight progressed, Jonas began to land some big, damaging shots that put Taylor on her heels. 

By the 8th round, the fight was even. Then, Taylor dug deep, going to the well and acted like the champion she is. She won the last 2 rounds to gut out the close decision. 

“I think I showed the heart of a champion tonight”, said Taylor. 

The 20,000 fans were treated to an entertaining and exciting fight that had both fighters giving no quarter and giving their greatest effort to win. 

Jonas should be proud of herself. She fought the champion, going toe to toe with her and forced Taylor to use every ounce of herself to get the victory. Many in the room were thinking: REMATCH. 

Jonas said “I feel like I belong at this level and I want to win belts and be a champion”. She’s not wrong, and time will tell-but she is 36-years-old. How much time does she really have? Her record dipped to 9-2-1, 7 KOs. 

Salute to the Queen of the Lightweights, Katie Taylor and “Team Taylor”! You eked out a win that will help define your toughness and etch in stone a major victory in your career. 18-0 is pure boxing perfection! 

Throw a flower or 2 towards the corner of “Team Jonas”: Natasha fought like a champion, though she faced a greater one-this night. I don’t think we’ve seen the last of either fighter, and a rematch might well be in the cards. LETSGOCHAMP #THEBRAWLERSSPORTSBOXIGSHOW

LETSGOCHAMPS!