Josh Taylor has not been in the ring since February 26, 2022. Defending his four world titles against Jack Catterall, Taylor eeked out a narrow decision victory in a fight that many questioned if he had won. Since then, he’s fought through a few injuries and vowed to make a “bold” statement upon his return. After losing three of his championship belts due to inactivity, Taylor is ready to protect the WBO Super Lightweight Championship from all those who attempt to take it from him, including Teofimo Lopez.
“I’ve got the bit between my teeth to make a big, bold statement that I am the best [140-pound] fighter on the planet and the best fighter in the UK pound for pound,” Taylor said.
“It’s a huge opportunity. Just saying it – Madison Square Garden, Teofimo Lopez – it just brings a huge smile on my face, I’m absolutely flying for it. I’m just so happy to be fighting in the Mecca of boxing. It gives me that fire in my belly just thinking about it, boxing in that same arena all the greats have boxed in.”
Taylor will share the ring with another man who feels that he has a lot to prove — Teofimo Lopez. After losing his undisputed lightweight title in 2021, he has spent the last year and change on a mission to get back to the top. On June 10, 2023, Lopez and Taylor will meet at Madison Square Garden and prove who the better boxer is as they both strive to reclaim glory.
