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Exclusive: Serrano calls for major rule change ahead of historic fight with Taylor

Nine-time world champion Amanda Serrano has challenged Katie Taylor to a 12 three-minute round contest.

History will be made on April 30 as Serrano and Taylor become the first female boxers to headline at New York’s Madison Square Garden.

As things stand, women's title fights are contested over 10 two-minute rounds, however Serrano has challenged her opponent to force a rule change.
Speaking at the press conference, she said: "I'm a woman for equality and we all talk about equality. Making history at the Garden, being the first women to headline, we're making the biggest payday, both of us.
"I think we should continue and make this fight iconic. If Katie Taylor's willing, I'm ready and able to make this an equal fight, 12 rounds, three minutes.
"We're making headlines, we're talking, we're getting interest. This is all about equality and we should make the change right now. So Katie, are you up for it?"

Serrano's offer came on the back of recent comments made by American promoter Bob Arum who caused controversy by suggesting that fans don't pay attention to women's boxing.

Taylor hit back at Serrano's offer saying: "I don't really feel like that will make a huge difference, the event is already iconic.
"The fact that the pre-sales are second-best in history [at Madison Square Garden] says it all really. This fight is even more important than we realised. This proves that perceptions have changed already. The fight is already iconic the way it is."

Taylor became the unified lightweight champion in 2019 with a victory over Belgium's Delfine Persoon.

She has since successfully defended her crown on six occasions - all six victories coming via unanimous decision.

Speaking to Planet Sport about the proposed rule change, the 35-year-old added: "I don't know what the right answer is. Everyone always is asking me about the three-minute rounds. I think the two-minute rounds are high-pace, there's great excitement.

"Of course in three minute rounds you could see more stoppages maybe, but I'm not too sure what the right answer is."

Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn poured cold water on the idea of any rule changes for April's bout, but didn't rule out a change in the future saying: "Contract is 10 [rounds] two [minutes each]. I don't know whether that was a bit of a publicity stunt or what. Interesting suggestion. I think it's ground-breaking enough but I'm sure in the future that could be the case."

READ MORE: Billy Joe Saunders vs Chris Eubank Jr rematch can happen, says promoter

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