Josh Taylor is in the final days of his camp, under the scorching sun.
He looks fit, confident, and slightly tanned.
I’ve gone from pale to lobster red, so I hope it turns into a tan.
Josh Taylor
The undisputed former super lightweight champion looks in optimal condition, partly thanks to his move up to welterweight, where he has a few more pounds to play with.
Taylor, with a record of 19 wins and 2 losses, 13 by way of knockout, assures that he had no problems making weight at 140 pounds, the division in which he reigned. However, like every boxer, the time comes to move up a weight class, and the 34-year-old fighter feels the difference as he prepares to debut at 147 pounds against Ekow Essuman (21-1, 8 KOs) in Glasgow on Saturday.
Basically I’m at my natural weight. I’m a couple of pounds over right now, which is nothing. I’m eating and I’m full of energy and I’m full of life.
Josh Taylor
You no longer have to worry about losing those last few pounds before the weigh-in, which can be a brutal process.
There are no saunas, no sweat suits, no dehydration.
Essuman will be a tough test for Taylor in what will be only his fourth fight in four years. The Scot wants to become a world champion in two categories and, as one of the best British boxers of all time, it’s not far-fetched. But he needs a convincing victory to prove that he can compete with the best in a division that is now very crowded.
Get the win this weekend and I’ll be in the mix for big fights at welterweight, but I’m not thinking about that because Ekow is a very tough test.
Josh Taylor
It’s tried and tested… he’s Commonwealth and British champion, so I’ll have a lot of work.
Josh Taylor
Jaron “Boots” Ennis, Devin Haney, Mario Barrios and Conor Benn are just some names Taylor will dream of if he proves he’s still at the highest level.
But there are questions that need answers.
- Are you still hungry?
He’s been in brutal wars and thrives when his fights are at a frenetic pace, which must have taken its toll.
- How has inactivity affected you?
Six of his last seven fights have gone the distance, so how will his body respond to getting back on top?
The other question that will follow him until he hangs up his gloves: What about Jack Catterall?
The duo has shared two brutal clashes, winning one each.
It’s one-one officially. I’m happy to move on and leave it where it is.
Josh Taylor
I was ready for a third, but they weren’t interested because they thought I was going to get a world title, but he lost to Arnold Barboza Jr.
I’m on my own path now. I’m looking to become a world champion in two weight classes. If the fight happens again and is attractive enough in terms of numbers, then I will consider it because it’s one-on-one and it would be good to settle scores.
