Watch the highlights of Katie Taylor’s narrow win over Delfine Persoon to unify all the major lightweight titles in women’s boxing.
On the undercard of Anthony Joshua vs. Andy Ruiz at New York City’s Madison Square Garden, Irish boxing superstar Katie Taylor (14-0, 7 KOs) was the heavy favorite to unify the women’s lightweight division against Belgium’s Delfine Persoon (43-2, 18 KOs). Taylor held the WBA, WBO, and IBF titles, while Persoon possessed the WBC title.
It was not only a difficult night at the office for Taylor, but there’s a strong argument that she shouldn’t have gotten the nod, which is what happened after ten grueling (two-minute) rounds. Taylor had significant trouble with Persoon’s size, pressuring, and frequent moments of physical bullying. There were numerous instances where Persoon was winning heavy exchanges, with Taylor unable to consistently just outbox her taller foe from the outside. By round ten, Taylor was exhausted and getting tagged with several clean shots in what was a thrilling contest.
The majority decision went Taylor’s way, with two scorecards going 96-94 for Taylor, and Don Trella calling it a draw. Persoon was stunned and disgusted, leaving the ring after hearing the official decision. Needless to say, Taylor got away with one on Saturday night. Take nothing away from both women, as they turned in exciting performances that will surely lead to a rematch.
Watch the highlights below.
WHAT A FIGHT! #TaylorPersoon pic.twitter.com/o4SmbhQoGF
— DAZN USA (@DAZN_USA) June 2, 2019
Read: Anthony Joshua vs. Andy Ruiz Jr live streaming results, round by round updates