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Former world champion Amir Khan believes that Josh Taylor’s illustrious career may be on the brink of a significant downturn as he prepares for his highly anticipated rematch with Jack Catterall. The two fighters will meet at the First Direct Arena in Leeds, over two years after their controversial bout in Glasgow where Taylor narrowly retained his undisputed super-lightweight title through a split-decision victory that many felt should have gone to Catterall.
A Non-Title Showdown to Settle Scores
This Saturday's clash is set to be a non-title contest, a stark contrast to their previous encounter. Taylor, now 33, has faced a series of injuries and lapses in discipline, raising questions about his current form. Catterall, who knocked Taylor down in their 2022 bout, is coming into this fight with renewed determination. Taylor, meanwhile, has fought only once since then, losing his WBO title to Teofimo Lopez in New York.
Amir Khan’s Insight from Experience
Amir Khan, who has sparred with Catterall and shares a history as a super-lightweight world champion, draws parallels between Taylor’s current state and his own experiences. Khan, whose career declined after a knockout by Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in 2016, recognizes the toll that tough fights can take.
“Josh Taylor’s had a lot of wars in his career,” Khan noted. “I know that, being in that same position – towards the end of my career I started feeling that. He’s had hard fights with big, tough opponents. I don’t think he’s got it in the tank anymore.”
Seeking Redemption
The controversy of their last fight adds fuel to Catterall’s drive for victory. “He was cheated in the last fight,” Khan said. “So this time he’s going to want to take revenge in a big way. I got Catterall winning the fight – on points.”
A Legacy in Jeopardy
Taylor, who has been compared to British greats like Khan and Ricky Hatton, faces a critical test.
“Both me and Ricky probably would have been a bit too much for him,” Khan commented, noting that Taylor’s recent struggles with domestic fighters suggest he may not be at his peak. “Not to sound disrespectful – I respect him a lot. But he’s having problems with domestic fighters.”
As the rematch approaches, the boxing world watches closely to see if Josh Taylor can defy the odds and silence his critics, or if Jack Catterall will finally claim the victory many believe he deserved all along.