Katie Taylor is heading for a landmark homecoming in one of the biggest irish breaking news stories in sport this week. The Bray champion will return to Croke Park on September 5 for what is being billed as her farewell fight, taking on unbeaten French opponent Flora Pili in a night that could add another historic chapter to Irish boxing.
A defining night for Katie Taylor
Taylor will put her WBO, WBA, IBF and Ring Magazine super lightweight titles on the line, while also fighting for the vacant WBC super lightweight belt. If successful, she would leave the sport as an undisputed champion once again, a fitting end to a career that has transformed women’s boxing worldwide.
Her opponent, Flora Pili, arrives with a perfect 12-0 professional record and a strong amateur background, making this far more than a ceremonial send-off. Taylor herself has stressed that the challenge is real, despite the emotion surrounding the event.
Croke Park returns to the boxing spotlight
The bout will mark the first professional boxing event at Croke Park since Muhammad Ali fought there in 1972, giving the contest added cultural and sporting significance. It also places the event among the standout moments in ireland sports news for 2026.
Ticket details fans need to know
- General sale begins at 9am on Friday, June 12
- Prices start from €38.70
- Family packages are available from €125.50
- Pitchside seats range from €106.25 to €1,505.50
- Pre-sales open from June 10 for selected groups
Promoter Eddie Hearn described the night as a long-awaited dream, while Taylor said fighting at the national stadium is the “icing on the cake” of her career. She also hopes the occasion inspires a new generation to take up sport.
Why this moment matters
Beyond titles and ticket sales, this fight feels bigger than boxing. It is a rare chance for Irish fans to celebrate one of the country’s greatest athletes on home soil, in a venue that carries deep emotional weight. For anyone following irish breaking news, September 5 now looks set to become an unforgettable date in Irish sporting history.
