Having matched Martin’s 32 stoppages, Serrano believes returning to two-minute rounds for this 12-round bout could deliver the finish.
“We all want a knockout,” she says. “With the two minutes, I get to give it my all. It’s so much higher pace than three minutes. I can just give everything.”
Beyond Friday, the curtain is coming down. Serrano has mapped out a solitary farewell in Puerto Rico, targeted for later this year or early 2027.
While former undisputed super-bantamweight champion Ellie Scotney has moved up to featherweight and is targeting Serrano, the reigning champion remains focused on her exit strategy.
She has already begun guiding the next generation under MVP, managing talents like Krista Rosado and Alexis Chaparro.
“I love Ellie as a person, and as a fighter she’s great, but right now I’m concentrating on this fight,” Serrano says.
“Seventeen years, I’ve accomplished what I wanted. Now it’s time to enjoy the sport from the other side, watching them.”
Fittingly, long-time rival Taylor is also preparing for her own farewell against Flora Pili at Dublin’s Croke Park on 5 September.
“I already fought my dream opponent three times,” Serrano smiles. “Retiring so close together, we might share the Hall of Fame together.
“I wouldn’t be prouder than to share that moment with Katie Taylor. She’s a great champion and a great human being.”
