Tyson vs Paul: Katie Taylor narrowly defeats Amanda Serrano on points in epic rematch

The super-fight was deserving of topping the bill, yet the striking dome-shaped stadium was almost full when the boxers made their ring walks.

A smiling Serrano lapped up the applause, dancing her way through a line of Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders.

Taylor, in black with gold trim, was more understated in her ring walk but still soaking up the atmosphere as she sauntered down the runway without any real urgency.

Serrano began strongly, whipping in a left hook in the closing seconds of round one to buckle Taylor’s legs.

Bray native Taylor knew all about her opponent’s power, having somehow stayed on her feet in a memorable fifth round of the first fight.

She once again weathered the storm and landed combinations in the second as the bout began to heat up.

Promoter Eddie Hearn, who was not sure whether he would be given accreditation for the fight after criticising the Tyson-Paul bout, watched on at ringside.

The challenger complained to the referee about Taylor’s excessive holding as both women trading punches in a terrific fifth, Serrano with the accurate blows.

The ringside doctor took a look at Serrano after another clash of heads in the fifth, as the crowd gasped at the close-up on the big screen.

Serrano valiantly continued, her eyesight hindered as she wiped blood every few seconds. Taylor targeted the damage with left hooks as both boxers threw caution to the wind.

Taylor was hurt by an uppercut in the seventh before replying with a two-punch combination. The fight was living up to all the hype, with Serrano’s warrior spirit winning over those fans who may not have already been invested in the chief support.

After the point deduction, Taylor continued with her punches but so did Serrano.

Just like they did at New York’s Madison Square Garden, Taylor and Serrano continued to throw hands until the final seconds of round 10.

Serrano outlanded Taylor and was more accurate in her punching. She also landed 324 punches over 10 rounds. More than they landed combined in their first fight.