Eddie Hearn has Katie Taylor primed to spearhead a breakthrough for women’s professional boxing but she can’t do it all on her own, writes Brendan O’Brien.

Back in pro action for the fourth time in just over four months, Katie Taylor steps up to eight rounds for her “toughest fight to date in the pro ranks” at the Manchester Arena tonight. 

Katie Taylor claims she is in supreme shape ahead of her third professional bout, insisting every fight of her pro career is now “like an Olympic final” despite her status as an overwhelming favourite tonight.

Katie Taylor’s return to the ring this weekend is set to kickstart a busy run of at least seven fights this year for the former Olympic champion.