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GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MAY 18: Josh Taylor of Scotland after beating Ivan Baranchyk of Russia on points during the WBSS Super Lightweight Semi Final IBF World Championship fight at the Muhammad Ali Trophy Semi-Finals – World Boxing Super Series Fight Night at The SSE Hydro on May 18, 2019 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
via Getty
GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – MAY 18: Josh Taylor of Scotland after beating Ivan Baranchyk of Russia on points during the WBSS Super Lightweight Semi Final IBF World Championship fight at the Muhammad Ali Trophy Semi-Finals – World Boxing Super Series Fight Night at The SSE Hydro on May 18, 2019 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
In boxing, a single defeat can change a fighter’s career. Once an undefeated champion, Josh Taylor recently lost to Teofimo Lopez in New York. The fight occurred under Madison Square Garden’s bright lights on June 10th, 2023. In the fight, Taylor suffered his first professional defeat. It was a night filled with challenges. However, despite these setbacks, Taylor acknowledges that Lopez was the better fighter that night.
In a recent interview, Taylor revealed all the reasons for his loss. Furthermore, his contemplation about this loss is quite dense. He has thought about his defeat in the match quite meticulously. Moreover, he unfurled how an “accumulation of things” became the reason for his loss. Indeed, it gives us a sneak peek into the mind of a champion who didn’t let his loss sway by.
What all led to the loss of Josh Taylor?
Josh Taylor’s defeat wasn’t simple. He wasn’t just outmatched. Taylor calls it an “accumulation of things.” As he said in an interview with Evening News, “But I think it was accumulation of things. I came back after the fourth round and said to my coach ‘my legs are gone’.”
Josh Taylor has opened up on his defeat to Teofimo Lopez back in June 🗣
Who would you like to see Taylor fight next? 🤔#JoshTaylor | #BoxingNews pic.twitter.com/V9iq2xqXTw
— IFL TV (@IFLTV) August 22, 2023
Furthermore, he told about other problems that arose. The other reasons were his foot injury, lack of sleep in New York, and intense media pressure during fight week. These factors, along with Lopez’s skill, shaped the night. Then, he sat down on his honeymoon intensely fed up thinking of his defeat. He also mentioned how he had to do a lot of “soul-searching” to finally make peace with it. Now that he looks back, he thinks how overthinking it can’t undo anything and he is working on his next challenge.
What are Taylor’s upcoming plans?
The defeat hasn’t killed Taylor’s passion for boxing. Contrarily, it has ignited a new fire. Moreover, Taylor now wants to reclaim his position at the top. Furthermore, he’s thinking about his weight class. Currently, he’s contemplating whether to stay at 140lbs or move to welterweight. Whatever the decision may be, he plans to “get his toes wet again.”
Taylor wants to chase big fights as his aim is to become a two-weight world champion. So, he’s eyeing potential fights, including a rematch with Teofimo Lopez. According to him, he plans to fight again soon. As he said, “I want to be out again before the end of the year.” The timeline could be perhaps in December or January likely in Scotland. As fans eagerly await his return, his timeline sets the stage for an exciting comeback.
Read More: Teofimo Lopez Reveals Why He Is a “Hall of Famer”
Josh Taylor’s loss to Teofimo Lopez wasn’t just a defeat. It was a complex mix of factors. Taylor’s honest reflection gives insight into professional boxing’s complex world. As he’s preparing for his next chapter, the boxing community watches with anticipation. They know Taylor’s resilience and determination and expect thrilling bouts in the near future.
What do you think about Taylor’s thoughts and plans? Share your opinions in the comments. Join the conversation about this intriguing boxing figure!
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