news-engine

The wait is almost and very nearly over. Just days away from headlining one of the most significant and seminal events in women’s boxing history, Katie Taylor and Flora Pili squared off for the final time in front of the assembled media during their pre-fight press conference ahead of Saturday’s clash at Dublin’s iconic Croke Park. The atmosphere was crackling sparking and fusing with excitement, high expectations, yet touching plus deep mutual respect, between two classy and dignified fighters, preparing for a battle that promises to leave a pugilistic hallmark. For Taylor, fighting in front of her home crowd numbering 83,000, on the stage she always dreamed of conquering, is the culmination and coronation of a legendary career. The Irish icon admitted she is still processing that her journey which is reaching its epoch conclusion precisely as she envisioned. “To finish my dream career at my dream venue,” Taylor aptly said. The multi-division champion also reflected on the meteoric growth of women’s boxing and her role in inspiring the next generation. “You walk into any boxing gym now, and it’s full of female fighters,” she noted. Visibly moved, Taylor confessed: “I’m still pinching myself to believe this is actually happening.” Across the stage, Flora Pili made it clear she didn’t travel to Ireland just to play a compliant supporting role. The French contender expressed gratitude for her team and the backing of her country as she approaches the biggest test of her career. “All of France is behind us,” Pili stated. “I want to thank my team—we know the challenge ahead of us.” While acknowledging Taylor’s legendary resume, Pili declared herself fully prepared to seize glory with both ands on away from home territory. The conference concluded with an intense final stare-down. Face-to-face, Taylor and Pili locked eyes intensely and purposefully for several seconds, fully aware that the next time they meet, it will be gloved up inside the ring and FOR REAL. The winner will not only claim immense prestige, but will also lift the commemorative WBC “Queen of the Celts” belt. Created by WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán as a tribute to Irish culture and the legacy of women transforming the sport, this unique masterpiece was handcrafted in collaboration with WBC Ireland to integrate the sacred symbols of Celtic heritage. The stage is set. Croke Park awaits. And so does the boxing world.