Unlike the scoring debate from their second fight in November, it was difficult to disagree with this verdict as Taylor was much more economical on the night.

Puerto Rico’s Serrano enjoyed some success in rounds six and eight, but the challenger was unable to sustain the pressure with some vintage moments from 39-year-old Taylor helping her turn the tide and produce a strong finish to put a seal on victory.

“I want to thank Amanda Serrano, what an amazing fighter,” said Taylor.

“I thought I did enough [to win]. I boxed smart and well, she wasn’t catching much tonight but it is always a close contest.

“I have a huge amount of respect for Amanda. What a warrior.”

Serrano, 36, acknowledged that her change of approach this time may not have paid off as there was no immediate protest at the outcome.

“I tried something different, it was all about working smarter not harder,” she said.

“I tried to keep my distance and not fight with her because apparently it didn’t work the first two fights. We tried to stay with the long punches and one twos, and it just wasn’t enough.”