Katie Taylor has received a walkover into the semi-finals of the Women's World Championships in Jeju, South Korea.
The Olympiic champion was due to meet Russia's Sofya Ochigava in the last-eight today in a repeat of the London 2012 Olympic final. But the southpaw did not weigh-in between 7am and 8am local time and Ireland was awarded a place in Sunday's semifinal.
"It is what it is," said Pete Taylor in response to the walkover. "After the contest yesterday I actually pointed out to Katie and I said to her that Ochigava wouldn't fight today."
While no reason was given by the Russian federation, it’s believed that Ochigava has a leg injury and was noticeably limping in the Halla arena after her round of 16 win over Brazil’s Adriana dos Santos. The international federation (AIBA) subsequently confirmed she did not weigh in because of a knee injury.
The semi-finals will be held on Sunday and the finals on Monday. Saturday is a rest day at the tournament. Taylor who is targeting a record equalling fifth successive gold medal at world level, is now guaranteed at least a bronze medal.
The Irish world number one will face China’s Jinhua Yin for a place in the final. Yin beat Bulgaria’s Denista Eliseeva on a split decision for her place in the semifinal.
