New York City awaits the final chapter of one of boxing`s most compelling modern rivalries. On Friday evening, Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano will step into the ring for the third time, a contest that not only promises high-level athletic competition but also serves as a testament to the elevated status of women`s professional boxing.
Their previous two encounters were landmark events. The first, held at the hallowed Madison Square Garden, marked the first time women headlined the iconic venue. Their rematch reportedly garnered record viewership for a women`s professional sporting event in the United States. These weren`t merely notable events; they were fierce, technically demanding battles fought with unwavering determination, concluding with razor-thin margins that fueled immediate demand for a tie-breaker.
The traditional final confrontation before battle — the weigh-in and face-off — occurred on Thursday. This ritual offered the customary pre-fight intensity mixed with the established mutual respect these two champions hold for one another. It was a moment of quiet focus, a final visual exchange before the actual physical contest unfolds.
Ahead of their third clash, both fighters offered their final remarks. Taylor, reflecting on the significance of the trilogy, acknowledged the immense pressure and anticipation, stating her expectation for nothing less than another “iconic” performance to follow their two previous outings. She spoke of the “honor” it is to headline such a significant card, framing the upcoming fight as a definitive highlight of her career, promising to give her absolute maximum.
Serrano, meanwhile, projected quiet confidence, her focus squarely on securing the victory that has eluded her twice. She declared this final encounter to be her moment, referencing the popular adage “third time`s the charm” as her strategic forecast for the outcome. Emphasizing the rigorous preparation and her inherent nature as a “warrior,” Serrano assured fans that the fight would be another tremendous spectacle, an honor to share the ring with Taylor once more, but with a different result this time.
The highly anticipated bout is scheduled for Friday evening in New York City. The event will be broadcast exclusively on Netflix, with preliminary bouts commencing at 5 p.m. ET, followed by the main card, including the Taylor vs. Serrano trilogy fight, kicking off at 8 p.m. ET.
More than just a rubber match to settle a score, Taylor vs. Serrano III represents a capstone moment in the careers of two pioneers and a significant event for the sport itself. For the athletes, it is the culmination of years of dedication and two shared, grueling encounters. Whether the “charm” aligns with the “iconic” outcome remains, as ever in boxing, a matter reserved for the ring itself, defying all pre-fight prognostication.
Marcus Blakely