The highly anticipated rematch between Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall has been postponed for the third time due to Taylor's injury. Taylor, the undisputed junior welterweight champion, sustained an injury that forced him to withdraw from the scheduled bout against Catterall in Leeds, England. The rematch, initially set for April 27, is now expected to be rescheduled for late May.
The first encounter between Taylor and Catterall took place in February 2022 in Scotland, where Taylor retained his title with a controversial split-decision victory. Despite being the underdog, Catterall put up a strong fight, dropping Taylor in Round 8 and causing a cut over his left eye. The contentious decision led to animosity between the two fighters, prompting an immediate rematch.
However, the rematch has faced multiple delays. Initially set for February 2023, the bout was postponed last March due to a scheduling conflict. Taylor's subsequent injury, a torn plantar fascia, further delayed the fight. Instead of rescheduling the rematch, Taylor opted to defend his title against Teofimo Lopez in June, resulting in his first professional defeat.
Catterall, determined to settle the score with Taylor, expressed his eagerness for the rematch, emphasizing the personal nature of the rivalry. Despite Taylor's plans to move up to the 147-pound division, the rematch with Catterall will remain at the 140-pound limit.
Both fighters have had recent successes in the ring, with Catterall securing victories over Darragh Foley and former champion Jorge Linares. Taylor, on the other hand, faced a setback against Lopez but remains confident in his abilities.
The ongoing feud between Taylor and Catterall has added intrigue to their anticipated rematch, with both fighters eager to prove themselves in the ring. Fans will have to wait a little longer for the showdown between these two fierce competitors, as the rescheduled bout promises to be a thrilling encounter.
