Katie Taylor Is Turning Pro
Katie Taylor has turned professional and will make her pro debut next month.
The London 2012 Olympic Gold medallist has signed professional terms with Matchroom Boxing.
Her pro bow will take place at The SSE Arena at Wembley in London on November 26th.
Tickets for Taylor's fight are on sale, while the fight will also be live on Sky Sports.
As well as her Olympic Gold medal, 30 year old Katie has won five World titles and six European titles.
The Bray fighter had a disappointing Olympics in Rio this summer, surprisingly getting knocked out in the quarter-finals.
However, she has now turned her attentions to conquering the professional ranks.
“When I first dreamt of Olympic gold, female boxing was practically unknown,” said Taylor.
“Now because of my journey and the incredible supporters who came along with me, female boxing is as much part of the fabric of the Olympics as its male counterpart.
“Now I want to do the same for the professional sport and I hope those who have supported me along the way will come along with me.
“I’m excited for the road ahead.”
Taylor will fight twice before the end of the year- her second pro bout will take place at the Manchester Arena on December 10th.
That will be on the undercard of Anthony Joshua's IBF world heavyweight title defence.
“Today marks a significant day for our sport with the news that Katie is joining the professional ranks,” said promoter Eddie Hearn.
“She is one of the most decorated amateur boxers of all time and a public icon in Ireland.
“I met Katie for the first time last week and was fascinated by her desire to not just win World titles but to break down the barriers of women’s boxing, she is an incredible role model.
“Boxing is a sport open to all but it’s also an entertainment business. Anyone who has watched Katie fight knows how exciting she is and anyone who hasn’t is really going to enjoy her journey on Sky Sports.
“I’m really excited by this challenge and we are committed to giving Katie the opportunities she needs to achieve her dreams.”
John Treacy- CEO of Sport Ireland- has praised the impact Katie's had on women's sport in the country: