Katie Taylor – Ireland’s 2012 London Olympics gold medal hero – turns pro
Women's boxing hero will be promoted by Eddie Hearn's Matchroom boxing team
Katie Taylor – Ireland’s Olympic gold medal winner at the 2012 London Olympics – has turned pro.
The women’s boxing icon - who took the top prize four years ago and reached the quarter finals in Brazil in the summer – will make her paid debut on November 26.
The 30-year-old’s massive list of achievements already includes five world titles and six European titles. And she will now aim to conquer the professional game with her second fight already planned for Anthony Joshua’s undercard on December 10.
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Taylor said: “When I first dreamt of Olympic gold, female boxing was practically unknown.
“Now because of my journey and the incredible supporters who came along with me, female boxing is as much part of the fabric of the Olympics as its male counterpart.
“Now I want to do the same for the professional sport and I hope those who have supported me along the way will come along with me. I’m excited for the road ahead.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn added: “Today marks a significant day for our sport with the news that Katie is joining the professional ranks.
“She is one of the most decorated amateur boxers of all time and a public icon in Ireland.
“I met Katie for the first time last week and was fascinated by her desire to not just win world titles but to break down the barriers of women’s boxing, she is an incredible role model.
“Boxing is a sport open to all but it’s also an entertainment business. Anyone who has watched Katie fight knows how exciting she is and anyone who hasn’t is really going to enjoy her journey on Sky Sports.
“I’m really excited by this challenge and we are committed to giving Katie the opportunities she needs to achieve her dreams.”