**Ireland’s Boxing Great Katie Taylor Bows Out as Undisputed Champion**
Dublin, Ireland – Katie Taylor, the renowned Irish boxer, concluded her illustrious professional career on September 5, 2026, with a triumphant victory over France’s Flora Pili at Croke Park. The match, which attracted a sold-out crowd of 80,000 fans, marked a historic moment not only for Taylor but also for women’s boxing in Ireland and beyond.
At the age of 40, Taylor entered the ring for her final bout, retaining her WBA, IBF, and WBO super-lightweight titles while also claiming the vacant WBC title. This victory crowned her as the undisputed champion for the third time in her career, solidifying her legacy in the sport. The atmosphere at Croke Park was electric, with fans welcoming Taylor with fireworks, light displays, and chants of “Katie, Katie, Katie!” as she made her way to the ring.
The fight itself showcased Taylor’s skill and experience. She utilized her superior movement and timing to control the early and middle rounds against the previously unbeaten Pili, who, despite her resilience, struggled to keep pace with the seasoned champion. However, in the seventh round, Pili mounted a strong comeback, presenting Taylor with her toughest challenge of the night. The Irish boxer, undeterred, regained her composure in the eighth round, reasserting her dominance as the crowd erupted into chants of “Ole! Ole! Ole!”
Upon the conclusion of the match, the judges awarded Taylor a unanimous decision, marking a fitting end to her career. In an emotional post-fight moment, Taylor expressed her gratitude to her family, particularly her father, who played a pivotal role in her boxing journey, and embraced her tearful mother in a heartfelt display of affection.
Taylor's career has been nothing short of remarkable. She began boxing during a time when girls were often excluded from amateur competition in Ireland, sometimes fighting under the name “K Taylor.” Her perseverance and dedication led her to Olympic glory, where she won a gold medal in lightweight boxing at the London 2012 Olympics, coinciding with the debut of women’s boxing in the Games. Following her Olympic success, Taylor turned professional in 2016 and quickly established herself as one of the sport's leading figures.
Over her career, Taylor amassed an impressive record of 26 victories and only one defeat, capturing world titles in both the lightweight and super-lightweight divisions. Her farewell fight not only celebrated her achievements but also marked the return of top-level boxing to Croke Park for the first time since the legendary Muhammad Ali defeated Al “Blue” Lewis in 1972.
As Taylor steps away from the ring, her impact on women’s boxing is undeniable. She has inspired countless athletes and paved the way for future generations of female boxers, both in Ireland and around the world. Her legacy will continue to resonate in the sport, as she leaves behind a trailblazing career filled with historic milestones and unforgettable moments.
Katie Taylor's departure from professional boxing closes a significant chapter in the sport, but her influence and contributions will undoubtedly endure, inspiring many to follow in her footsteps.