Katie Taylor questions confidence of challenger McCaskill

Katie Taylor, in her own courteous and respectful way, has vowed to shut up Jessica McCaskill when the pair clash next month.

Taylor [7(4)-0] defends her WBA lightweight title for the first time on Wednesday December 13th at the York Hall in London, taking on American McCaskill less than seven weeks after winning the belt.

Even before defeating Anahi Esther Sanchez for the strap last month in Cardiff, Taylor was being called out by McCaskill [5(3)-1(0)] and her team, and the Chicago-based boxer has been rewarded with a shot at the title.

While Taylor is not one for smack talking, there is definitely a sense that the fight will be somewhat personal for the Wicklow boxer – who will become the first female boxing to headline a Sky Sports card.

The 31 year old has spoken of unifications and winning belts at multiple weights and wants to be known as a fighter who doesn’t dodge challengers.

Taylor remarked how “I’m more than happy to give her the opportunity and I certainly won’t be avoiding anyone as a champion.”

“I truly believe that this is only the start of things for me. I want all the belts and the biggest possible fights over the next few years.

“It’s been a great first year for me as a professional and this really sets me up for a great finish to it. Headlining on Sky Sports is another first for the sport and I’m so grateful to Eddie Hearn and Sky for the opportunity.”

While she is not rising to the bait left by Team McCaskill, their words certainly have not gone unnoticed – indeed the Bray boxer mesed how it may be indicative of a lack of confidence on their part.

“If she’s as relentless in the ring as she is on social media it should be a great fight!” said Taylor.

“Trash talking’s not really my thing but she seems to be happy to talk enough for the both of us anyway! Maybe it’s something she feels she has to do for her own confidence but none of that stuff matters once the first bell rings.”

“I’m happy to let my boxing do the talking then and that’s definitely where I express myself best.”