Josh Taylor announces shock RETIREMENT from boxing as former undisputed champion admits he has to ‘save me from myself'
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JOSH TAYLOR has shocked the boxing world by announcing his retirement from the sport.
The 34-year old former undisputed world champion has revealed the bombshell news, saying it's down to doctor's orders.
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Josh Taylor was undisputed champion
Credit: PA
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He fought Jack Catterall in Glasgow in 2022
Credit: Kenny Ramsay
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Taylor fought in Las Vegas
Credit: Getty Images - Getty
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Taylor thanked his wife Danielle in an emotional post
Credit: Kenny Ramsay
Taylor scaled to the very top of the boxing landscape, becoming an undisputed light-welterweight champion.
He held the WBA, WBC, WBO and Ring magazine titles and was also a medallist at the Commonwealth Games.
A controversial win over Jack Catterall in Glasgow in February 2022 saw Taylor move to 19-0 in his professional career.
But he lost his last three fights, with May's unanimous decision defeat to Ekow Essuman at the Hydro now going down as his final bout.
Taylor took to social media to confirm the shock news of his retirement, revealing he ultimately has no choice to do so or risk losing his sight.
Taylor said: "Right folks, this isn't an easy post for me to write, but on the advice of my doctors, it's sadly a necessary one.
"As has been publicised before, I've had a recurring issue with my eye that unfortunately means I now have to call time on my career or risk losing my eyesight.
"Whilst the fighter in me always wants to box on, I know I have to listen to the medical professionals and save me from myself.
"It is certainly not the way I wanted to bow out but I have to listen to the doctors and those around me.
"I am just a kid from the Pans who scaled the very top of the sport but I could not have done it without those who have supported me through thick and thin.
Tense moment fight rivals Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall silently stare each other out in frosty final face-off before much delayed re-match
"First and foremost, I cannot thank you - the fans - enough.
"You always gave me your all, spending your hard earned money to come and watch me fight.
"Especially the thousands that travelled to watch me box at Madison Square Garden.
"Your support has always meant the world to me and I have never taken it for granted.
"Top Top Rank (Bob, Carl, Brad, Jeremy and Mel T), you helped turn my dreams into a reality in becoming undisputed world champion and boxing me in Vegas and MSG.
"More recently, I wanted to thank Frank and George Warren and Queensberry for giving me the opportunity to headline at the Hydro once more in front of the fans that I love.
"I know that British boxing, and Scottish boxing in particular, is an exciting place with the focus that you have on bringing through th next generation of world champions.
"To my coaches over the years, Terry McCormack, Shane McGuigan, Ben Davison and most recently Joe McNally - thank you for all the time, energy and guidance you've investedin me, taking me to the very heights (sic) of the sport.
"And finally, my family and my beautiful wife Danielle, who's been by my side every step of the way.
"Words will never do justice to what your unwavering love and support means to me.
"It's now time for me to reflect on a 1 in 70 million career and look forward to what's coming next.
"Thank you once again and God bless."
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