KATIE TAYLOR’S VIOLENT destruction of Kimberly Connor didn’t deter the defeated challenger from visiting Taylor’s changing room afterwards, and the Texan evinced nothing but class as she congratulated her Irish adversary in the bowels of London’s O2 Arena.
In her career-biggest fight, the IBF number-two ranked veteran had hung tough with Taylor before coming under fire and unravelling in the third round, about halfway through which referee Steve Grey was forced to intervene.
Great finish from @KatieTaylor what an exciting world champion pic.twitter.com/NbMjaW4kgK
— Ruben Tabares (@rubentabares) July 28, 2018
Indeed, with her right cheek having inflated from an accidental clash of heads in the opening frame, one couldn’t have blamed Taylor if she’d been glad to see the back of Connor, but things were far more cordial when the pair reconvened backstage.
The 37-year-old American wasn’t shy in showing her appreciation for the WBA and IBF World champion, telling Taylor:
You’re living my dream, you know. And I’m really proud of you.
Kimberly Connor visits @katietaylor’s dressing room post fight last night. A little respect and class goes a long way. 👏 pic.twitter.com/EOwRc35rQu
— Brian Peters (@BPPboxing) July 29, 2018
Next up for Taylor it’s another defence of her world titles versus Puerto Rican Cindy Serrano in Chicago in October.
Connor will doubtless watch on fondly, and despite last night’s convincing defeat can’t be ruled out of another title shot at some point – either at lightweight or down at super-feather.
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