Brutal blow

Reporters’ star ratings for main events and undercards are based on in-ring entertainment, competitiveness and whether overall expectation was met

GLASGOW

FEBRUARY 26

YOU can’t be perfect every fight. In his 18 previous contests Josh Taylor had been superb. He’d risen quickly as he beat Ivan Baranchyk, Regis Prograis and José Ramírez to establish himself as the world champion at super-lightweight. But against Jack Catterall in the Hydro arena on Saturday he stuttered, he struggled. Frankly he should have lost the decision.

The rhythm that typically comes with his work, his sharp feet and fast strikes had deserted him. It would be Catterall, the unheralded challenger from Chorley, who settled as the bout progressed, who kept composed and picked out impressive counter-punches. It would be Catterall too who was left in despair at the judges’ verdict.

Taylor entered the arena to a reception befitting a champion’s return. It was his homecoming after an