Last month I (along with two other GJWB ambassadors: Yvette Raposo & Lyla Simon) witnessed a night that would go down in boxing history (not just women's boxing history) - I had the UNFORGETTABLE opportunity to witness the third chapter in the saga between two of the sport's greatest athletes—Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano. As part of an all-female fight card that elevated women's boxing to new heights, this was more than just a boxing match. It was a celebration of grit, passion, and the power of women. Here's a glimpse into my experience at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York:
The Energy in the Arena
The buzz was palpable as I entered Madison Square Garden. You could feel the weight of history in the air, and not just because of the legendary fighters in the ring, but because this event was breaking barriers. The crowd’s excitement reached a fever pitch as the main card began.
The energy in the arena was electric - there were so many passionate supporters who had come to see the women’s fights front and center. I couldn’t help but feel proud to be part of such a groundbreaking night.
The Main Event: Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano III
The main event was everything we had hoped for and more. Katie Taylor, the undisputed lightweight champion, and Amanda Serrano, the Puerto Rican powerhouse, had already given us two legendary bouts, but this third encounter promised to be the culmination of their rivalry. The celebration of both fighters as they made their way to the ring was invigorating, and the crowd was divided between Irish & Puerto Rican fans & flags.
Although the fight was different from the last two, as a student of the game and coach it was amazing to see the two showcasing true boxing skill and both using their strengths to their advantage. There was a palpable sense of history—this was more than just a fight. It was a statement.
The Atmosphere of the All-Female Fight Card
What made this night even more special was that it wasn’t just about the main event. The entire fight card was dedicated to showcasing the incredible talent of female fighters from around the world. From the opening bouts to the co-main event, each fight was filled with skill, emotion, and a powerful display of athleticism.
Additionally, there were fighters from all over the world. The women in the ring weren’t just fighting for themselves—they were fighting for future generations of female athletes who would look back at this night as the turning point.
The Impact of the Night
As the final bell rang, and I stood there, surrounded by cheering fans and a buzzing atmosphere, it hit me just how significant this moment was for boxing as a whole. Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano weren’t just athletes—they are trailblazers who were challenging the very narrative of the sport.
This night wasn’t just about boxing—it was about progress. About elevating women’s sports to the level of their male counterparts. It was a statement that women’s boxing deserves this and more. I couldn't help but feel lucky to have been there to witness history in the making.
Walking out of Madison Square Garden that night, I felt a sense of pride and excitement that was hard to put into words. I had witnessed something truly special and was grateful to be there—an event that would be talked about for years to come. The Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano III fight was more than just a boxing match. It was a celebration of everything that is possible when athletes, no matter their gender, push the boundaries of their sport.
