Irish boxing legend Katie Taylor prepares for her undisputed super lightweight championship fight against French challenger Flora Pili on Saturday at Croke Park in Dublin, according to reporting by FightNews.com and Inpho. Taylor opened her final public workout at Mahony Hall in the Helix at Dublin City University to a standing ovation, concluding the session by inviting a 10-year-old fan into the ring to spar.
The Final Public Workout at DCU
According to Inpho’s on-the-ground reporting, the Helix at Dublin City University transformed into a temporary boxing arena on Wednesday evening for Taylor’s open workout. After undercard fighters finished their sessions, Flora Pili entered the ring first. The French fighter, carrying a 12-fight unbeaten professional record and standing 11 years younger than Taylor, spent roughly six minutes shadowboxing in red, white, and blue braids.
When Taylor emerged from behind the curtain just after 7 p.m., the crowd gave her an immediate standing ovation. Working with coach Ross Enamait to the sound of Kool & The Gang’s “Celebration,” Taylor completed a high-intensity pad session before ending the workout by engaging with the audience.
Passing the Baton to the Next Generation
During the closing moments of the session, Taylor walked to the ropes and pulled them apart for 10-year-old Dubliner Clodagh Keating, according to Inpho’s account. After a brief hug, Taylor placed a boxing glove on the young fan’s right hand, leading to an impromptu sparring session in the ring that moved onlookers to tears.
“Having a chance to meet Clodagh, who got into the ring, this is what it’s all about for me,” Taylor stated after the workout. Reflecting on her recent milestone of turning 40 years old, the champion added that she purposefully selected a tough challenge for her final fight.
Undercard Highlights and Croke Park Stakes
The event also featured public workouts for the evening’s supporting card. Dublin heavyweight Thomas Carty addressed the crowd ahead of his bout against Doncaster’s Dave Allen, promising a major atmosphere at Croke Park. Liverpool’s Molly McCann also delivered an energetic open workout session ahead of Saturday’s historic fight card.
Pro Tip: When following major boxing events like the Croke Park card, checking verified open workouts and fighter weigh-in schedules provides early insight into athlete conditioning and fight week momentum.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Katie Taylor fighting in her final match?
Katie Taylor faces undefeated French challenger Flora Pili for the undisputed super lightweight championship, according to FightNews.com.
Where is the fight taking place?
The championship bout takes place at Croke Park in Dublin on Saturday, September 5th, as reported by FightNews.com and Inpho.
What happened at the final public workout?
Taylor held her open workout at Mahony Hall in the Helix at DCU, where she received a standing ovation and invited 10-year-old fan Clodagh Keating into the ring to spar, according to Inpho.
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