Amanda Serrano Retracts Suggestion of Deliberate Headbutt by Katie Taylor

Amanda Serrano, who recently suffered her third defeat in 51 professional fights, has stated that she was incorrect in suggesting that Katie Taylor had intentionally headbutted her during their controversial bout against the Irish fighter. Taylor, 38, successfully defended her undisputed light-welterweight title with a points victory in Texas. This occurred despite her being docked a point in the eighth round for a headbutt, while Serrano sustained a cut above her right eye after a clash of heads in the fourth round. Following the match, a disappointed Serrano had initially claimed that Taylor kept “headbutting” her and that this behavior is “what she does” in “all her fights.” However, the Puerto Rican fighter subsequently posted on X: “Tempers are flared when you’re in the heat of battle and you say things you shouldn’t say.” She further clarified, “In no way should I ever had said she did it purposely, it’s her style that makes for [clashing of heads].” All three judges scored the fight 95-94 in favor of Taylor, securing her second win over her 36-year-old rival in another epic contest, following their first encounter in April 2022. Taylor, who was met with boos after the result was announced, commented that she “didn’t agree with the point deduction” and maintained that she “certainly wasn’t fighting dirty.” Serrano also extended her congratulations to Taylor on Saturday for her success, adding that she never intended to “disrespect” her opponent. The seven-weight world champion remarked, “She and I are cool outside the ring and the best dance partners in the ring,” and expressed her hope that “I hope you guys all enjoyed women’s boxing at its highest level.” Serrano additionally stated that she was “a bit bruised and cut” but confirmed she was “healthy” and would be “ready” for Taylor whenever a third bout could be agreed upon to complete their trilogy.