It has been confirmed that Katie Taylor will make her professional boxing debut at The SSE Arena, Wembley in London on November 26, live on Sky Sports.
The Bray fighter has signed with promoter Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and will follow her debut with another bout on December 10 on the undercard of the IBF World Heavyweight title defence of fellow gold medal star Anthony Joshua at the Manchester Arena.
Excited to announce the signing of 6 time European champ,5 time World champ & Olympic gold medalist @KatieTaylor - debut Nov 26 @SkySports 💥 pic.twitter.com/qomtLiEyxx
— Eddie Hearn (@EddieHearn) October 27, 2016
Taylor says she hopes to raise the profile of professional women’s boxing.
“When I first dreamt of Olympic gold, female boxing was practically unknown,” said Taylor.
“Now because of my journey and the incredible supporters who came along with me, female boxing is as much part of the fabric of the Olympics as its male counterpart.
“Now I want to do the same for the professional sport and I hope those who have supported me along the way will come along with me. I’m excited for the road ahead.”
Katie Taylor turns pro with Matchroom - debuts on November 26 at The SSE Arena, Wembley https://t.co/k3XJAJd6iu pic.twitter.com/d8oSVWJh0T
— Matchroom Boxing (@MatchroomBoxing) October 27, 2016
Promoter Eddie Hearn said the signing marks a significant day in boxing history.
“She is one of the most decorated amateur boxers of all time and a public icon in Ireland.
“I met Katie for the first time last week and was fascinated by her desire to not just win world titles but to break down the barriers of women’s boxing, she is an incredible role model.”
Taylor’s new manager Brian Peters said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to work with Katie again.
“She’s is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s greatest ever athletes, a national treasure and a true pioneer for women’s sport. She was hugely instrumental in getting women’s boxing into the Olympics and now she wants to make a similar impact on the professional side of the sport.”
