Undisputed welterweight champion Josh Taylor still believes he beat Jack Catterall. after he rewatched the fight following controversy over the result.
It represents his first and likely last defence of all four belts, but the Scot was knocked down and landed far fewer punches than his opponent.
Many observers and broadcasters believed that the English mandatory challenger was the clear victor, but a split decision judges’ decision went Taylor’s way, leading to outcry. Catterall’s trainer Jamie Moore described his fighter as ‘heartbroken’ and said he would consider walking away from the sport, such was his disappointment.
Such is the level of outcry that the British Boxing Board of Control is investigating the scoring. Taylor issued a statement on his Instagram account reiterating his post-match comments that he was the better fighter on the night.
He wrote: "I have taken a few days for some well-earnt time with my family after not seeing them for a few months. I've had a chance to watch the fight back. First and foremost, I want to congratulate Jack Catterall on a great fight. He rose to the occasion and fought a valiant fight. However, I believe I won a very close fight.
"Many fans believe Jack deserved the decision, and that's fine. We both went in there and fought our guts out for 12 rounds… but the personal attacks on myself and especially my family are disgusting and uncalled for.
"My days at 140 are numbered. My future is at welterweight. Jack Catterall deserves another title shot, and as soon as possible. I've never ducked a challenge in my career, and I'd be happy to fight Jack again, but it would have to be at welterweight. Jack is a great sportsman, a helluva fighter, and deserves every bit of the admiration he's been receiving.
"I want to thank my family, my team, the fans who packed The OVO Hydro and watched... around the world.
“Fighting as the undisputed champion on Scottish soil was a dream come true, but I'm only getting started. I'll be back and better than ever, this time ready to conquer the welterweight division."