Catterall has respectful words for two-time rival.
When a fighter isn’t given the decision he deserves, it is an unfortunate situation for a multitude of reasons.
Of course, there is the effort that goes unrewarded, but it can often be more than just that. Sometimes, it means a fighter has been deprived of a big opportunity, or it could even mean that a life-long dream has been crushed.
This is especially the case when a world title is on the line.
But what if an incorrect decision prevents a fighter from being the undisputed champion of the world?
In February of 2022, that is exactly the situation that Jack Catterall was in.
Catterall had gone to the OVO Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland, and taken on undisputed super-lightweight titleholder Josh Taylor, appearing to do more than enough to win.
However, only one judge found a card for Catterall, while the other two gave it to the Scottish favourite.
While there have been a number of controversial decisions since, Taylor vs. Catterall 1 stands as perhaps the most lambasted of the past few years.
So unpopular was the verdict, in fact, that judge Ian John-Lewis (who put forth a 114-111 card in favour of Taylor) was downgraded by the British Boxing Board of Control a couple of months after the fight.
Catterall and Taylor would see each other again, rematching over two years later. This time, every card favoured Catterall, and he avenged the wrongful blemish.
Taylor would fight once more after that, losing a decision to Ekow Essuman. He would then retire from the sport altogether.
Catterall, meanwhile, has moved up to welterweight and fought his way up to world level, and he is scheduled to take on Shakhram Giyasov for the WBA (Regular) title in May.
But last week, when quoting a fan’s reply on Tweet regarding the decision in his first bout with Taylor, Catterall stated that it was “all in the past” and that he was “greatful” for his in-ring foe.
“Looking back, he was a great dance partner”, Catterall wrote.
He also stated that he will become a world champion this year.
Such respect towards rivals is exactly what every good sportsman possesses.
All in the past I will become world champion this year 💯 I’m
Greatful to josh looking back he was a great dance partner https://t.co/ZDqAmui99Q— Jack Catterall (@jack_catt93) April 12, 2026
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