After over two years of anticipation and controversy, Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall are set to renew their rivalry at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, England, this Saturday. This highly anticipated junior welterweight matchup, broadcast on DAZN at 2 p.m. ET/PT and 11 a.m. GMT, holds significant stakes for both fighters.
Taylor's Rise and Fall
Josh Taylor, rated No. 2 by The Ring at junior welterweight, was a decorated amateur before turning professional in 2015. He quickly made a name for himself, claiming victories over former world titleholders Miguel Vazquez and Viktor Postol. His journey through the World Boxing Super Series was spectacular, defeating unbeaten Ryan Martin, capturing the IBF title from Ivan Baranchyk, and unifying against WBA beltholder Regis Prograis. These victories crowned him the Ring champion and later, the four-belt undisputed 140-pound champion after beating Jose Ramirez.
However, Taylor's career hit a snag when he faced Jack Catterall. Despite a controversial 12-round split decision victory, many believed Taylor was outboxed. He then lost a unanimous decision to Teofimo Lopez, raising questions about his form and fitness. Now, with his body seemingly letting him down, the 33-year-old southpaw aims to prove he still has what it takes to perform at the highest level.
Catterall's Road to Redemption
Jack Catterall, rated No. 7 by The Ring, has had an impressive yet tumultuous career. After staying unbeaten and securing wins over Tom Stalker, Joe Hughes, and Tyrone Nurse, Catterall finally got his shot at the then-undisputed champion Taylor. In a fight that many believed he won, Catterall dropped Taylor and held off a late surge, only to lose a contentious split decision.
With the rematch delayed, Catterall stayed active, defeating Darragh Foley and former three-weight world champion Jorge Linares. Now, the 30-year-old technician seeks to leave no doubt about his prowess in the ring.
The Stakes Are High
Taylor (19-1, 13 KOs) and Catterall (28-1, 13 KOs) both have much to prove. Taylor's recent struggles have cast doubt on his invincibility, while Catterall aims to demonstrate he belongs at the world-class level he showed in their first encounter. Will Taylor, now fully aware of Catterall's capabilities, come better prepared? Can Catterall rise to the occasion once more and secure a decisive victory?
Betting Odds and Predictions
According to online gambling group William Hill, Taylor is a 4/5 (-125) favorite, while Catterall is priced at EVS (+100); the draw is 16/1 (+1600). As the fight approaches, fans and pundits alike are eager to see if Taylor can reclaim his dominance or if Catterall will finally get the recognition he deserves.
This rematch isn't just about titles; it's about settling scores and solidifying legacies. As fight night looms, one thing is certain: both fighters are ready to leave everything in the ring.