Taylor’s win over Vazquez makes ‘huge statement’

Josh Taylor’s “spectacular” stoppage win over Miguel Vazquez on Saturday night will make the boxing world take notice, according to promoter Barry McGuigan.

The 26-year-old from Prestonpans extended his winning record to 11-0 with a ferocious body shot in the ninth round which rendered the experienced Mexican unable to beat the count.

It was the first time the 30-year-old former world champion had been stopped in 45 fights, and around 4,000 fans raised the roof at the Royal Highland Centre in Edinburgh to acclaim the victory.

Taylor retained his WBC silver superlightweight title, and manager McGuigan believes he made a “huge statement”.

“It was a world-class performance against a guy who had never been stopped before; this kid, in his 11th fight, took him out,” said the former world champion.

“It was pretty spectacular. “We are left with a problem really; where do we go from here? Nevertheless it is a very nice problem to have.

“With the greatest of respect to the British title I think that is a step back for Josh Taylor, and why would you take a step back when we are so close to big things?

“After that performance he is number six in the WBC, number 11 in the IBF.

“We haven’t canvassed the WBO and WBA yet but they will be looking at him after that performance.”

Taylor sustained a cut above his left eye in a clash of heads in the second round and said he “gained a lot” from his encounter with Vazquez, a former IBF lightweight champion for more than four years.

Taylor said: “He was very experienced.

“When I was hitting him cleanly he gave nothing away, so I’ve learned a lot from that,” he added.

“I will take a few weeks off and I think I’d like to go for a European title first and then see what’s happening after that.”

Josh Taylor defeated Miguel Vazquez in style.