Katie Taylor sidesteps opponent Amanda Serrano’s call for 12 three-minute rounds

The Puerto Rican called for equality in the world of boxing yesterday, instead of the customary 10 two-minute rounds expected at her world lightweight title showdown with Taylor in New York on April 30.

Seven-weight world champion Serrano said at a London press conference: “If we want to make change...(Let’s do) the same as the men.

“We’re making history and I want to continue to open the doors for the new generation coming into the sport.

“I’m a woman for equality.

“We all talk about equality and if Katie Taylor’s willing, I’m ready to make this 12 rounds of three minutes (each).”

But undisputed champion Taylor, who is putting her belts on the line for the sixth time since beating Delfine Persoon to claim them in June 2019, quickly knocked back Serrano’s suggestion.

Taylor said: “I don’t really feel like that will make a huge change.

“The fight is already iconic the way it is.

“The fact the pre-sales are the second best in history says it all really.

“This fight is even more historic than we realise.”

Serrano doubled down on her proposal, saying at the press conference: “I understand that.

“But if people really want to take notice we need to make a stand.”

But Taylor, who is unbeaten in 20 fights, responded by saying: “I think we’re already making a stand.

“This fight is going to show the best female pound for pound fighter in the world.

“We’re already making a stand by taking this fight.”

Southpaw Serrano, who at 33 is two years younger than Taylor, grew up in Brooklyn.

And she is confident of success in the first female bout to headline the New York venue.

She said: “My plan is to fight smart.

“I know I have all the tools to beat Katie Taylor.

“I just have to go out there and be smart and the victory will be