Amanda Serrano vs. Katie Taylor II: Another Controversial Chapter in Women’s Boxing

By Kalis Smith 

( Courtesy/ Simon Samano – USA Today) 

On Nov. 24, 2024, Amanda Serrano and Katie Taylor squared off at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, for a highly anticipated rematch. 

This bout followed their first legendary fight in 2022, a groundbreaking event that made history as the first all-female headliner at Madison Square Garden. That clash not only set a new benchmark for women’s boxing but also captivated audiences with its thrilling back-and-forth action and display of heart from both fighters. It was a fight that transcended the sport, drawing global attention and leaving fans eager for a rematch to settle unfinished business. While the rematch delivered drama and high-level skill, it ended in controversy, much like their initial meeting.

Katie Taylor secured the victory by unanimous decision, with all three judges scoring the fight 95-94 in her favor. The decision ignited outrage from fans and critics alike, many of whom believed Serrano had done more than enough to win. 

The backlash highlighted ongoing concerns about judging standards in boxing, particularly in high-profile bouts. Many observers pointed to Serrano’s superior punch volume and control of the pace as clear indicators of her dominance, sparking debates about fairness and transparency in the scoring system. Fans and analysts alike called for reforms to ensure fighters’ efforts are accurately reflected in the outcomes, reigniting conversations about the need for greater accountability in the sport.

The Puerto Rican fighter landed 324 punches to Taylor’s 217, dominated several early rounds and demonstrated relentless aggression throughout the fight. Despite this, Taylor walked away with the belts yet again.

“I don’t know what more Amanda has to do to win,” said Jennifer Rivera, a native of Loíza, Puerto Rico, and lifelong Serrano fan. “She fought with heart, precision and skill. It’s disappointing to see her hard work not rewarded.”

The fight started explosively, with Serrano landing powerful combinations in the opening rounds. Taylor, known for her resilience, absorbed the punishment and began to rally in the middle frames. 

A pivotal moment came in the fourth round when an accidental clash of heads opened a deep cut above Serrano’s right eye. The injury hindered her vision and allowed Taylor to regain momentum.

In the eighth round, controversy struck again when Taylor was penalized a point for another headbutt. While some applauded the referee’s call, others felt it was too little, too late, given Serrano’s earlier injury. Even with the deduction, Taylor edged out the win on the judges’ scorecards, a result that left many scratching their heads.

“Taylor fought well, but this decision feels political,” boxing analyst Marcus Caldwell said. “Serrano outworked her in almost every measurable way. It’s tough not to question the integrity of the scoring.”

Taylor, ever gracious in victory, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the highest level. 

“Amanda is a phenomenal fighter,” Taylor said in her post-fight interview. “These are the kinds of battles that push women’s boxing forward. I’m open to a third fight.”

Meanwhile, Serrano did not hide her disappointment, feeling the sting of a decision she believed didn’t reflect her dominance in the ring. Her frustration was evident, as she had landed more punches and controlled much of the fight’s pace, leaving fans and analysts questioning the fairness of the outcome. The controversial result has only intensified calls for a third matchup to settle the rivalry once and for all.

“I gave it everything I had, and I believe I won this fight,” she said. “But if a third fight is what it takes, I’ll do it. I just hope it’s judged fairly next time.”

The controversy surrounding the fight has reignited debates about judging in boxing. Critics argue that fighters like Serrano, who often rely on volume punching and aggression, are undervalued by judges favoring cleaner, singular strikes. 

This scoring philosophy, coupled with the injury and point deduction, created a perfect storm that left Serrano at a disadvantage.

Despite the outcome, the fight cemented both women’s status as icons of the sport. The rivalry between Taylor and Serrano has become one of boxing’s most captivating sagas. Whether or not they meet again, their bouts have elevated women’s boxing to new heights, inspiring a generation of fighters to dream big.

Although the prospect of a trilogy looms large, with fans eager to see if Serrano can finally overcome Taylor’s aura of invincibility.

For now, though, Serrano walks away with her head held high, knowing she left everything in the ring and stayed true to her fighting spirit. Despite the outcome, she remains a symbol of resilience and determination, earning the respect of fans and critics alike. With her unwavering commitment to the sport, Serrano has promised to keep pushing forward, using this moment as motivation to continue proving herself at the highest level. Her performance, though not rewarded with the belts, reaffirmed her status as one of the most skilled and fearless fighters in women’s boxing.

“This isn’t the end,” she said. “I’ll be back stronger.”