British boxing body looks into scoring in Taylor vs Catterall world title fight
British boxing authorities are investigating the scoring of a world title fight that saw Scottish fighter Josh Taylor retain his light-welterweight belts in a split-decision victory.
English challenger Jack Catterall out-boxed Taylor and landed more successful punches than his rival in the bout but two of the three judges still scored in favour of the champion, who was fighting in his home country.
“The British Boxing Board of Control will be investigating the scoring of this contest," the governing body said, ”and will advise accordingly.”
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Catterall’s trainer, Jamie Moore, described the scoring as “disgusting” and said his previously unbeaten fighter was “robbed.”
It was Taylor’s first defence of his WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO belts, with the defending champion taking to Instagram to insist he was deserving of the win, while addressing his much expected switch to welterweight. Taylor also offered Catterall a rematch but only after switching divisions.
"I have taken a few days for some well-earnt time with my family after not seeing them for a few months," he said.
"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.
"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."
The Scottish champion also hit back at social media trolls who went after his family following the split decision win.
"Many fans believe Jack deserved the decision, and that's fine," Taylor added. "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.
"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."
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