Katie Taylor Announces Retirement Fight in Dublin This Summer

Bray, Ireland – Boxing superstar Katie Taylor has confirmed her professional farewell will take place in Dublin this summer, bringing an end to a remarkable 20-year career. The 39-year-old, currently taking a break from the sport, revealed her intention to retire in 2026 earlier this year, and has now pinpointed the Irish capital as the location for her final bout.

Croke Park Dream Remains a Priority

Taylor has long expressed her desire to fight at Croke Park, Dublin’s iconic Gaelic games stadium. While negotiations are ongoing, and securing the venue remains a challenge, it remains her top priority. Should a fight at Croke Park prove impossible, the Aviva Stadium and 3Arena are viable alternative options.^RTE

“We’re still trying to figure the details out but I do have one more fight this year. It’s kind of like my retirement fight,” Taylor told RTÉ Sport. “It has been an amazing journey, the whole lot of it, over these last 20 years. I have had the highs and lows. It has been an incredible, remarkable career and I always wanted to end it here in Ireland.”^RTE

“I just want to fight in Dublin to end my career. Obviously we’re still hoping for Croke Park, we’re hanging on to a bit of hope that it can happen. If it doesn’t happen there are plenty of options there. I have obviously fought in the 3Arena a couple of times, the Aviva Stadium is also there. Fighting my last fight in our most iconic arena, how special would that be? I think it would be absolutely remarkable if I was able to do that. I’m not sure if it is going to happen or not.”^RTE

Potential Opponents and Timing

While a finalized date and opponent have yet to be confirmed, the fight is expected to take place in July or August.^RTE Taylor is currently recognized as the undisputed super-lightweight world champion, although the WBC has designated her “Champion in Recess” following Sandy Ryan’s recent victory for the vacant belt. Edith Soledad Matthysse is also an interim WBA champion and a potential challenger.^RTE Taylor may seek a higher-profile opponent to maximize attendance, particularly if the fight is held at Croke Park.

A Celebration of a Legendary Career

Taylor emphasized the importance of her final fight being a celebration of her career and a thank you to the Irish fans who have supported her throughout her journey, including her Olympic success and professional boxing career.^RTE “Irish people have been so amazing to me throughout my whole career… It means so much to me. I’m just so grateful for that support and so grateful to be Irish.”^RTE

Stadium director Peter McKenna has expressed his eagerness to host Taylor at Croke Park, stating that the stadium is open to the possibility “if the stars align.”^{Irish Star}