Katie Taylor sets out to conquer the world again

Officially, Katie Taylor was in Dublin yesterday to formally launch her professional debut, which takes place in London on Saturday night. It did not take long, however, for talk to turn to bigger ambitions and more lucrative fight nights.

The former Olympic champion takes on Polish journeywoman Karina Kopinska in what will be Taylor’s first paid fight this weekend at the SSE Arena, Wembley, which will be carried live on Sky Sports.

The backing of that broadcaster is key to the promotional plans of Matchroom Sports boss Eddie Hearn, who already has a series of big fight dates lined up for the 30-year-old. A second pro bout is booked for just two weeks after her bow, when Taylor will feature on the undercard of world heavyweight titlist Anthony Joshua.