Boxing
Former world champion who pushed Oleksandr Usyk all the way announces retirement
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Former cruiserweight world champion Mairis Briedis has confirmed his retirement.The 39-year-old lost in his most recent appearance in the ring, when he suffered a defeat as he and Jai Opetaia ran in back in May.
Opetaia had lost his IBF belt to the Australian in their first match-up, and has now decided to walk away from the sport after an impressive career.
The Latvian is seen by some as the fighter to give Oleksandr Usyk his hardest ever fight, when losing by majority decision to the now-heavyweight in 2018.
“Dear friends, fans, and loved ones,” Briedis announced on social media,
“25 years ago, I went into the unknown, putting on boxing gloves for the first time, not yet aware that it would lead me to a career as a professional athlete. Boxing, over time, became my passion, career, and a big part of my life.
“Today, I want to share a decision that was not easy for me to make. Firstly, because the road that I have travelled over the years has been filled with so many unforgettable moments and joys of victory, it has made me the person I am today and has allowed me to pursue new goals and achievements all this time, which has served as a drive for me to always strive for more.
“I would like to say thank you for these 25 years and officially announce the end of my professional boxing career.
“Every fight, especially those that took place in Latvia, was special to me. I’ve always felt incredible support from my peers and that’s what inspired me to reach higher and even higher goals and achievements. This support and energy I felt from you guys made my boxing career unforgettable. Whatever – boxing, it wasn’t just a career – it was a life filled with passion, emotions, and dreams. But it’s time to say goodbye to the ring and open a new chapter in my life.”
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