Super-lightweight boxer has vacated her WBC title after becoming pregnant.
It is thought that Katie Taylor will be having her final fight later this year, and the all-time great from Ireland is expected to be saying her farewells to boxing in her home country’s capital of Dublin.
The specific venue targeted is Croke Park, and while an official announcement is yet to be made, recent news suggests that these plans are set to be fully realised, with confirmation almost certainly set to be made this week.
But ahead of the big event, there is still some uncertainty regarding who Taylor will be facing. Fans have put forward a number of names they’d like to see, but rumours relating to the opponent have been absent for the most part.
But two days ago, we were given a good idea of who the person in the opposite corner will be.
As reported by the WBC, super-lightweight world champion Sandy Ryan has been made champion-in-recess due to becoming pregnant.
It is currently unknown who the father is, and Ryan is yet to release a statement on the matter. However, the Briton’s WBC world title will now be fought for between Taylor and undefeated IBO champion Flora Pili.
That’s according to the WBC, at least, who claimed on Monday that they were “confirming” the fight between the two, seemingly announcing who Taylor’s opponent will be for her last professional affair.
This would make sense, considering that unified champion Taylor and Pili would be fighting for all the belts between them, giving the Irish superstar the chance to go out as a two-time undisputed world champion.
Whether this is the fight or not, we will be finding out very soon.
Update! 💜🚨
The WBC congratulates Sandy Ryan on her pregnancy and wishes her all the best. As Champion in Recess, she will always have the support of the WBC during this process.
The vacant WBC Women’s Super Lightweight Title will be disputed by Katie Taylor & Flora Pili. pic.twitter.com/ymoi7WmGo6
— World Boxing Council (@WBCBoxing) June 1, 2026
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