New opponent emerges – Katie Taylor could be forced into August 22 mandatory defence

If neither Amanda Serrano or Delfine Persoon sign to fight Katie Taylor [15(6)-0] for August 22, the Bray favourite will have to face her WBA mandatory challenger or give up one of her four lightweight titles.

Ireland’s only ever undisputed world champion in the four belt era will fight on August 22 live on Sky Sports and DAZN.

It was hoped that seven weight world champion Serrano would provide the opposition, but the massive mouthwatering match up looks unlikely after a very prolonged and public fall out.

Taylor’s promoter Eddie Hearn has reached out to old rival Delfine Persoon and a rematch with the Belgian remains a welcome possibility.

Names like Chantelle Cameron and Heather Hardy have also tried to throw their hat in the ring – and whilst not as appealing as Serrano or Hardy could provide high profile opposition for a pay per view card.

However, if the Puerto Rican nine time world champion and the teak tough Belgian are not options, Taylor faces a choice between a relatively big name and undisputed status.

WBA president Gilberto Mendoza confirmed the governing body would overlook mandatory obligations for fights of the magnitude of Serrano and Persoon, but not for anyone else.

The governing bodies main man claims Miriam Gutierrez is ‘over due’ her shot at the Irish sensation and the WBA title.

Speaking to Sky Sports he said : “We support Katie’s fight with Serrano and Persoon, but if it’s not one of them then she must face her mandatory Gutierrez – it’s been over two years since she won the title and her mandatory is overdue.”

The Spanish fighter is unbeaten in 13 fights and has collected the European title along the way.

Her name has been mentioned on numerous occasions previously, but the 37-year-old wouldn’t be seen as ‘mega fight’ material.

In that regard she doesn’t fit the original 2020 narrative, but Taylor may not be left with a choice.