Irish boxer Katie Taylor raised a Hallelujah as she became a two-weight undisputed world champion in Dublin last night.
The lightweight title-holder, who has spoken often about her Christian faith, won by a majority decision in a revenge match against England’s Chantelle Cameron. She had been defeated by Cameron in May, in the only defeat of her 19 match professional career.
Last night, Taylor walked out into the ring at the 3Arena to the worship song ‘I Raise A Hallelujah’ by Bethel Music – in front of a TV audience of millions.
The 37 year old has previously spoken about the impact her Christian faith has on her life, saying her mother prays with her ahead of every match. Speaking to the Irish Times, she said: "I actually don’t know how people get through difficult moments without God in their life.
"That’s my anchor, my rock and there are definitely times I cling onto the word of God.
"One of my favourite verses is in the Book of Romans and the gist of it is that whatever you’re going through there’s a defining moment you can actually use for your benefit. I believe that.”
Taylor also draws inspiration from Psalm 18, which her mother encouraged her to read when she was 17. She says it has now become her mantra which she reads before every fight:
“ The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.
“ I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.”
Commentators say last night Taylor produced one of the best performances of her career to seal what is likely to go down as her greatest victory.