Boxing star Katie Taylor has delivered a spine-tingling message to the British and Irish Lions before their last Test in Australia.
The Lions travel to Sydney on Saturday for their third meeting with the Wallabies, which is live on talkSPORT, having already wrapped up the series with a 26-24 win, which they did in dramatic fashion in Melbourne.
It was the first time a Lions side had won a series on tour in 12 years as Hugo Keenan crossed the line with seconds left to secure a dramatic win for Andy Farrell’s side.
More than 90,000 fans packed into the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with the Lions now gearing up for a historic trilogy.
Should they defeat Joe Schmidt’s men for the third time, the Lions will achieve their first undefeated Test series in Australia since 1927.
They also have the chance to join Willie John McBride’s famous 1974 invincible side, having only lost to Argentina in Dublin since the squad travelled Down Under.
Ahead of the final Test, Lions coach Farrell sought the help of Ireland’s undisputed super lightweight champion Taylor to ensure his team recognise what is at stake on Saturday.
“I’m recording this fresh off the back of the last leg of an undisputed trilogy fight against Amanda Serrano,” the 39-year-old said in reference to her win over her rival for the third time to end an era-defining rivalry that has transcended women’s boxing.
“I’m aware that you’re in the heat of a trilogy of your own,” Taylor continued as her message was played out to a packed room.
“I want to share with you two quick thoughts that have helped me get the best out of myself on those big nights,” she added, gripping the squad.
“The first is simply acknowledging the privilege of being part of big games like this.
“There is no right to win. It must be earned every game, every fight, every tackle, every minute.
“The second thought I want to share has calmed my nerves. Every athlete knows that there are so many variables in any given day and for reasons I can’t fully control.
“Sometimes I feel sharp and strong and my timing is perfect, and sometimes it isn’t, and this can lead to performance anxiety.
“But regardless of those things – some of which are hard to control – I know that even if it isn’t pretty, I am 100 per cent confident that I will go through the trenches if necessary.
“That’s a controllable, that’s a matter of will, so here’s my message: prepare to win by skill, but be ready to win by will.
“In both our sports, it is often the case that the biggest will to win takes the spoils.
“So I hope all of the things that you have practiced and all the tactics you have contemplated go your way.
“I hope all the performances are worthy of your skills, but if not, I’m confident that your will and your courage will be enough.
“After all, what else could it mean to be a lion?”
Farrell said he hopes the speech will help the players realise what it means to be part of the group, and rugby fans were left blown away.
One responded to the video on Instagram, saying: “Watched this, first there were tears and now I’m ready to fight a bear! 3-0 gents!”
A second added: “Wow, that was some powerful stuff.”
While a third wrote: “Goosebumps after listening to that.”
Fellow boxer Shauna Browne, who rejected a lucrative contract offer from Jake Paul and told talkSPORT of her admiration for Taylor, posted: “Absolutely incredible words. Will all the way.”
A fourth person added: “That’s an unbelievable message,” and another said: “Oh my God, that has hit me hard. Love it.”
The Lions kick off at 11 am UK time at the Accor Stadium in Sydney on Saturday.
Gary Ringrose has been ruled out of the game, while Joe McCarthy, Mack Hansen and Sione Tuipulotu are all available, having previously carried injuries.
The third Test between Australia and The British and Irish Lions will be live on talkSPORT at 11am on 2 August
