On a dramatic homecoming for Katie Taylor, the darling of Dublin was beaten by English fighter Chantelle Cameron on Saturday night. Cameron retained her undisputed world super-lightweight titles on a majority decision in a fraught atmosphere in Dublin, overcoming immense pressure and a passionate home crowd. Despite the valiant efforts of Taylor, who had not fought in her home country before, Cameron’s power and aggression proved too much for the Irish woman. The 10,000-strong audience booed Cameron at the end of the fight, but both women showed immense courage and skill throughout.
Unlike usual fight promotions, the 3Arena was packed two hours before the main event, as boxing returned to Ireland for the first time since early 2016. But in Taylor’s dressing room, the atmosphere was serene and peaceful, as she had her hands wrapped before walking out to her rapturous reception. Wearing a grey T-shirt which read “It is God who arms me with strength,” she was in her element.
Cameron was aggressive from the outset, pushing Taylor back and landing solid blows. But the Irish fighter responded with sharp combinations, making the opening round highly competitive. Taylor began to move with alacrity in the second round, while Cameron powered forward with intent. The third round saw Taylor punching with fluidity, while Cameron continued to bully her opponent. Cameron intensified her percussive punching in the fourth round, and for the first time, Taylor looked ragged and under pressure.
The fifth round saw Cameron pin Taylor against the ropes, landing a variety of body punches and combinations. However, Taylor ended the round on a high with an overhand right and a left hook, eliciting a huge roar from the home crowd. By the halfway stage, it was clear that Taylor would need to dig deep to impose herself on Cameron.
It was a seesawing battle between the two women, with an unrelenting intensity. The mutual desire and pride of both fighters elevated the sport on this memorable night, with each testing the other’s will. It was only in the tenth and final round that Cameron managed to snatch the decision, having done just enough to edge past Taylor.
Women’s boxing consists of 10 two-minute rounds, which creates an unrelenting, frenetic, and intense pace of action. The best female fighters have captured significant attention in recent years, and it seems that Taylor brings vast experience to the sport, despite her first professional defeat. However, her age and wear and tear seem to be catching up with her, suggesting that her glorious career may be coming to an end.
For Chantelle Cameron, however, the excitement and euphoria of her victory will be sustained for some time. Taylor may want a justified rematch, but the pain of her defeat will likely last some time. Nevertheless, Taylor remains the most cherished sporting personality in Ireland, and while the march of time cannot be denied, she has a lasting legacy in the sport of boxing.
