One could argue that Amanda Serrano has been the most successful boxer in women’s boxing history, with major titles in seven weight classes ranging from 115 to 140 pounds during her remarkable 14-year career.
However, the Puerto Rican native has one more box to check: undisputed.
Serrano, who holds three 126-pound belts, is scheduled to face WBA champion Erika Cruz for all four major featherweight belts Saturday in New York City. No one from her country – man or woman – has ever been an undisputed champion.
“This is an important moment, not only for me and my own career but also for my home island of Puerto Rico,” said Serrano, who grew up and lives in New York. “Having a chance to become an undisputed online champion is something most boxers only dream of, but being the first boxer from Puerto Rico to become an undisputed champion would make it a reality. that makes it even more special.
“I look forward to getting into the ring… in my hometown of NYC at Madison Square Garden.”
Serrano (43-2-1, 30 KOs) lost the decision to split in Katie Taylor’s 135-pound title attempt last April, she then naturally relegated over 126 to pointed out Sarah Mahfoud to unify the three titles.
The 34-year-old told BoxingScene.com she has no plans to gain the weight back unless she’s hit by Taylor again.
Serrano has fought in 5 divisions in her last 10 matches, losing only to Taylor. That feat speaks to her extraordinary abilities and will be a central part of her legacy. However, she said those days are over.
“God willing everything goes well, the only fight where I’m going to gain weight after this fight is the rematch with Katie Taylor,” she told the outlet. “Then I finished chasing parts. I want to stay in feather class. That’s where I feel most comfortable.
“The only way for me to move forward again is for a Katie Taylor rematch.”
Of course, revenge was not a top priority in her mind. Cruz (15-1, 3 KOs) is. The Mexican has honored Jelena Mrdjenovich twice in her last three fights to become a title holder and establish herself as one of the better female boxers.
That’s why Serrano put the possibility of a rematch with Taylor aside for now.
“I didn’t even look that far,” she told BoxingScene.com. “I have Erika in my sights. Featherweight was always the weight class I wanted, and I just focused on that.”
