Glovely to see you, Katie

EAGER Katie Taylor fans got their first chance to see the two-weight world champion in the flesh yesterday ahead of her long awaited homecoming fight on Saturday

- NICOLA DONNELLY

The Bray boxer - along with her opponent Chantelle Cameron - took part in a public workout in a specially set up boxing ring at Pembroke Square at the Dundrum Town Centre in South Dublin.

Fans gathered in the sun from as early as midday to watch the undercard fighters be introduced and workout before Katie took to the ring at around 2pm. Saturday's bout in the almost sold-out 3Arena will be the first time in her professional career that the Olympic gold medallist will fight in her native country.

The undisputed Lightweight Champion, who added the WBO Super Lightweight crown to her trophy cabinet, was greeted with huge cheers as she entered the ring yesterday.

And Katie told the MC: "This is absolutely incredible. We are bringing big-time boxing back to this nation. We have a chance to become a two-way undisputed champion on Saturday night so we can't wait.

While working out in front of the crowds, she called young boxer Carly Burke from Stepaside into the ring. And a thrilled Carly got to show off her skills.

Katie also stepped out to meet a group of primary school kids.

Katie's father Pete Taylor was spotted in the ring coaching one of the undercard fighters Gary Cully.