The highlight of the Manchester showcase on Saturday 1st May was undoubtedly the match up between Irish boxing icon Katie Taylor and Miss GB, Natasha Jonas.
Katie took a tight decision on the cards (96-94, 96-95, 96-95) with Jonas pushing her to her limit!
Jonas and Taylor put on a stunning display, with Katie producing a gutsy late rally to edge the decision and defend her world titles at Manchester Arena.
The Irish fighter started quickly but her four lightweight belts were at risk as Jonas began to land hard shots as the fight progressed.
Jonas showed greater power but Taylor’s speed and punch volume were key down the stretch as she won late rounds.
Trainer Joe Gallagher explained to Sky Sports: “What a fight, take a bow Katie Taylor and Natasha Jonas! It was nine years in the making and it didn’t disappoint. It delivered and more. It was a great fight and the only thing missing was the crowd. Could you imagine that arena, 20,000 full.
“I had it level after eight. Tasha lost the ninth, got to give Katie the ninth. Round 10, I thought Tasha won the first minute and-a-half and Katie finished strong. It could have been level, or a round to Tasha.”
Regarding talk of a re-match – Joe continued: “Everything looks to Natasha Jonas and Katie Taylor, and I think Natasha Jonas – that’s the logical fight for Katie. I said to Tasha, it’s a draw, or it’s a round your way, or a round her way. It’s very close.
“I’ve heard people say, ‘Katie has got lots of mandatories.’ Yes, she has, but when there is a demand for a rematch, they have to step aside while this is unfinished business.”
Natasha has now proved on numerous occasions she belongs at this world level – and there is still more to come from Miss GB!