A row on a rematch clause ahead of the WBO struggle interrupted katie Taylor’s press conference together with Christina Linardatou.
The Irish celebrity is stepping up a division to challenge WBO champion Linardatou in Manchester Arena on November 2, live on Sky Sports, however the Greek fighter’s staff were quick to voice their anger about not being provided an immediate return bout if the titleholder suffers defeat.
The supervisor Brian Cohen of linardatou suggested that a rematch was included by Taylor’s arrangement and wanted to know why his boxer failed to get the same terms.
“When you visit your fighter get off an aeroplane at tears, and that I know it’s actually light-hearted in this, I am sorry to bring down the energy,” explained Cohen.
“She’s not happy, she is a champion, as if you mentioned, we were still negotiating for quite a while and she just feels like the champion that she should have a rematch clause in the contract”
Taylor’s promoter Eddie Hearn quickly responded:”You’re that worried about losing already?”
Cohen continued:”You have a rematch clause if she beats her, but not if [Taylor] beats [Linardatou], right? Are you worried? No, so why do you not set the rematch in?”
Hearn replied:”We are not worried, we have got you.”
Linardatou also seemed to express her frustration however, insisted she wasn’t worried about defeat.
“We’ve been anticipating this match for quite a while, but under various conditions or circumstances,” said Linardatou. “However, at any rate, I will go ahead with this match.”
“I really don’t have any problem, I’m not terrified of losing my belt. I’m only getting in the ring and offer all my best, and that is what I am going to do always, so I am here.”
Taylor stayed respectful towards her competition, rather focusing after becoming lightweight winner in June.
“This really is a huge chance for me to become a two-weight world winner as a history maker for me and my country,” explained Taylor. “I’m very, very conscious of the challenge that Christina bringsin.
“I do believe that she’s the top 140lbs at the division and I cannot wait for a very, very exciting struggle.”
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