Caroline Dubois made history on Sunday evening by unifying the WBO and WBC Lightweight titles, securing a unanimous decision victory over Terri Hatcher. The fight began with a cautious approach from both fighters, but Dubois found her rhythm midway through the contest. She managed to drop Hatcher in the sixth round, showcasing her dominance and resilience as she withstood a late surge from her opponent to claim the win with scores of 98-91 (twice) and 97-92.
The bout was preceded by a tense build-up that saw the two fighters nearly come to blows before the fight night. Despite this, Dubois remained focused and delivered a strong performance, further solidifying her status as one of the top contenders in women’s boxing. With a record of 13 wins, one draw, and no losses, the unbeaten Dubois is now setting her sights on a high-profile challenge.
Dubois has long been considered a potential opponent for Katie Taylor, who is set to retire later this year after one final fight in Dublin. The 2012 Olympic champion is eager to compete at Croke Park before ending her legendary career. Dubois has expressed her desire to be Taylor’s final opponent, emphasizing her respect for the Irish boxer.
“I’ve got a lot of time for Katie, I think she’s a legend. If she said, ‘Caroline Dubois, let’s do this,’ and she wants to test herself against me, I would jump at the opportunity. Who wouldn’t? Who honestly would say no to Katie Taylor?” Dubois said.
“She’s a legend; it would be an honour to step in the ring with her.”
Despite her ambitions, Dubois acknowledges that the call for a fight with Taylor may not come soon. Instead, she is expected to face Alycia Baumgardner later in the year. Dubois has made it clear that she is eager for this matchup, calling it “the biggest fight in women’s boxing.”
“I want that fight. I want Alycia, I want her next.”
While the 25-year-old remains focused on Baumgardner, promoter Nakisa Bidarian believes a fight between Dubois and Taylor at Croke Park is a must. Bidarian expressed his hope that Dubois could be the final opponent for Taylor, suggesting that such a match would be a historic moment for women’s boxing.
“My dream scenario is for Caroline to be the last dance partner for Katie Taylor,” Bidarian said.
“Maybe Katie Taylor seizes an opportunity to, not pass the baton, but give Caroline the opportunity to take the baton from her. I think that will be a massive fight at Croke Park.”
