On September 13, 2019, from the Hulu Theater in Madison Square Garden, two of the most explosive women in the Featherweight division met up for an intense back-and-forth matchup.
The Puerto Rican southpaw, Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano, went pro 10 years ago and has climbed the rankings earning championships in eight different weight classes and has caught the attention of many with her explosive combinations and 71 percent KO rate.
Serrano is only female in boxing history to achieve eight world titles sanctioned by a major organization, tying fellow champ Manny Pacquiao.
The Irish American, Hardy who picked up boxing a little late in her career, is anything but a push over. This tough-willed chick will stand toe to toe with you throughout the entire fight, returning fire and showing heart.
Hardy states she is used to being the “underdog” in her bouts, but if she has proven anything it’s that she will definitely not shy away from any opponent and will be there every second demanding her respect.
Serrano and Hardy are both well-known Brooklynites and had met in the ring many times before in sparring sessions. Being two of the most dominant women in their division, both fighters are also signed to promoter Lou DiBella.
Hardy and Serrano would often meet for sparring and Serrano admitted it would never be an easy day with “The Heat,” so she expected everything but an easy fight. Putting their friendship aside meant it was time to get busy and put on a show for the world to see.
In the opening of the first round Serrano started an early onslaught on the body of Hardy. Pushing her against the ropes, gunning to the liver and attaining ring generalship early.
Serrano, who sported a strong jab, loaded up on her four punch combinations landing her jab at will.
Hardy, who maintained active during the rounds, was rolling with the punches off the ropes, countering Serrano when she could and doubling up to the top. She attempted to switch the pace of the fight in Round 5 and found some success in doing so, creating space between them by circling to the left of Serrano’s power hand.
Hardy landed a nice counter right, pushing her back and slightly bruising Serrano’s right eye.
Serrano dominated the majority of the second half of the fight, opening a small cut over the right eyebrow of Heather Hardy and winning every round on the scorecards except the fifth.
Winning a unanimous decision and gaining her eighth world title, this well-earned victory should pave the way to a mega fight with Katie Taylor.
Taylor, who is the undisputed champion, is rumored to be going up in weight to 140 pounds, making many sport fans question if she is doing so to dodge a potential fight with Serrano.
When asked about the possibilities of a future matchup with Katie Taylor, Serrano seemed ready no matter what weight class.
“Katie Taylor wants 140, so we will see what she wants to do,” said Serrano. “No matter what weight, I’ll win.”
