Katie Taylor vs Firuza Sharipova LIVE: Result, latest reaction and updates
Follow all the fallout from Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena
Katie Taylor retained her four lightweight titles on Saturday night, beating Firuza Sharipova via unanimous decision.
After 10 rounds of boxing at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, the scorecards read 98-92, 97-92, 96-93 in favour of the Irishwoman, who remains undefeated at 20-0. Eyeing a monumental meeting with featherweight queen Amanda Serrano, there was no room for error for Taylor as she took on an opponent who had previously lost just once – in her professional debut in 2016. Indeed, Sharipova was gutsy and looked to make things rough throughout – even being docked a point for a punch off the break – but the Kazakhstani could not match Taylor’s hand speed, superior footwork and head movement.
“She definitely wasn’t tougher than expected, we were well aware of the challenge,” Taylor said of Sharipova after being announced as the winner – and still undisputed lightweight champion. “We were prepared for a tough fight. She was very scrappy inside, it was hard to get [punches] off. Still undisputed, still undefeated, so I can’t complain.” The former Olympic, world and European amateur champion also acknowledged a possible showdown with Serrano, who fights next weekend, as “the biggest fight in female boxing”. The victory capped off a fine 2021 for Taylor, who has also beaten Natasha Jonas and Jennifer Han this year.
Follow the fallout from Taylor vs Sharipova below.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Final round then, can Cordina force a stoppage?
A first time in the 10th round for Khatchatryan, whose tank is still reasonably full it seems.
Both men trading, engrossing stuff! Cordina thinks he’s done enough and celebrates but that was quality from both men.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Sims complaining to Cordina in the corner between rounds.
It prompts a big response, stalking his performance, but he must let those hands go.
It’s hard though, with Khatchatryan’s movement not providing a stationary target and the power not enough to slow him through nine.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Khatchatryan still putting together combinations, then shuffling out of range.
He has a really nice, slick style. Cordina unable to get on top of him all night as the eighth near an end.
Khatchatryan’s corner are loud too, perhaps sensing their man has a chance here. A lot of his shots are on the gloves, but he deserves some credit, it’s been a good display.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Khatchatryan moving so well this fight, but that’s a sickening body shot.
He can’t mask the pain in the seventh.
Cordina not pouncing though. And the Belgian bounces a couple of good shots off the Welshman, who then gets a warning for holding down Khatchatryan’s head.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Khatchatryan smiles after landing an overhand right, it briefly stuns the Welshman, it’s a gorgeous shot.
Cordina peppering his body, lovely work. This is a competitive fight though through six rounds.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Imposing from Cordina now, pushing him back with the jab and then waiting for the response.
Almost luring Khatchatryan in and then countering well.
The Belgian’s gas tank is impressive though, he’s asking for more engagement from Cordina.
Benn vs Algieri undercard: Joe Cordina vs Miko Khatchatryan
Cordina dishing out the punishment now, backing up Khatchatryan.
Cordina soaks up a couple 1-2 combinations from the Belgian, showing he has a solid shell too.
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