Take Me Home – Taylor tells Hearn she wants Irish clash after toughest fight of career

Brave Jessica McCaskill didn’t quite back up all her confident pre-fight talk at the York Hall last night, but she did manage to give the gifted Katie Taylor the hardest fight of her career.

The American was very verbal in pursuit of the London 2012 Olympic gold medalist and notably tried to get under the WBA lightweight champion’s skin during fight week.

Despite her confidence and predictions the American, was on the wrong end of a competitive, if fairly one-sided, 97-92, 97-92, and 98-91 scorecard.

However, while Taylor won most of the rounds, the gutsy investment banker was always in the fight, continually marched forward and even managed to temporarily wobble the World champion in the sixth.

After fight the Bray native admitted McCaskill had given her the toughest test of her eight-fight pro career.

“It was the toughest fight of my career,” stated Taylor. I thought I boxed well from the outside. I knew she was very tough and I prepared well for that.”

“I was more nervous about this fight than when I fought in the bigger stadia. I thought I boxed well on the outside I knew she would be a tough opponent. I am delighted to have the victory and can rest over Christmas.”

“This is what I was born to do. I loved every second of it. It was an absolute privilege to be boxing here in the York Hall. It’s such an historic venue and I’m living the life of my dreams. I want to make history in this sport.”

History might be the overall aim for the legendary amateur puncher, but her immediate goal is to unify in an Irish hosted bout early in 2018 – with promoter Hearn eyeing IBF champ Victoria Noelia Bustos.

“I want a homecoming fight and to unify the division. I just want to be involved in the biggest fights possible. I’m living the life of my dreams and I am so grateful. I want all the belts and make history in this sport.”