Josh Taylor, the former undisputed super-lightweight world champion, has called it quits on his boxing career. The Scottish fighter made the announcement today, following doctor's orders due to a recurring eye injury.
Taylor's decision comes after a stellar career that saw him rise to the top of the boxing world. Born in East Lothian, Scotland in 1991, he turned pro in 2015 after winning gold at the 2014 Commonwealth Games as an amateur. He quickly made his mark in the professional ranks, capturing the Commonwealth super lightweight title early in his career.
The Scotsman's ascent to greatness kicked into high gear in 2019. He claimed the IBF world title and won the World Boxing Super Series by defeating Regis Prograis, also picking up The Ring Magazine belt in the process. Taylor's crowning achievement came in May 2021 when he unified all four major world titles by beating Jose Ramirez, becoming the UK's first ever four-belt undisputed world champion.
However, Taylor's career took a controversial turn in 2022 with a widely disputed win over Jack Catterall, a fight many viewed as a robbery. The following year, he suffered his first professional loss to Teofimo Lopez. In a poignant moment that same year, Taylor shared fond memories with Scottish boxing legend Ken Buchanan before Buchanan's passing.
This year saw Taylor move up to welterweight, but a points loss to Ekow Essuman signaled the end of his time in the ring. He retires with a professional record of 19-3, including 13 knockouts.
Taylor explained his decision in a heartfelt statement:
"It's not the way I wanted to bow out, but I've got to listen to the medical professionals. My recurring eye injury risks my eyesight if I continue to box. It's time to call it a day."
The 34-year-old expressed gratitude to his fans, promoters Top Rank and Queensberry, sponsors, and his legal team. He also thanked his coaches Terry McCormack, Shane McGuigan, Ben Davison, and Joe McNally for their guidance throughout his career. Taylor reserved special appreciation for his wife Danielle, acknowledging her unwavering love and support.
"Now it's time to reflect on a 1 in 70 million career and look forward to what's coming next," Taylor added.
Taylor's retirement marks the end of an era in Scottish boxing. He'll go down in history as one of the country's greatest fighters, alongside the legendary Ken Buchanan. His journey from Commonwealth Games gold medalist to undisputed world champion serves as an inspiration for aspiring boxers across the globe.
As Taylor hangs up his gloves, the boxing world bids farewell to a true champion who achieved the rare feat of unifying all four major world titles. His legacy in the sport will undoubtedly endure for years to come.
