Conlan Announces Boxing Retirement Following Stunning Loss in Belfast

Two-time Olympian Michael Conlan has declared his retirement from boxing after a shocking split-decision loss to Kevin Walsh in his hometown of Belfast. Despite one judge scoring the bout 97-93 in his favor, Conlan lost 96-94 on the other two scorecards. Conlan, a bronze medalist at the 2012 London Olympics, expressed his desire to leave the sport with his health intact and his family secure. 'I've accomplished a great deal in boxing, but I never achieved my goal of becoming a world champion,' Conlan stated. 'I always said that my next defeat would be my last, and now that it's happened, I'm walking away.' Conlan reaffirmed his decision to retire on social media, stating that he wants to focus on guiding the next generation of fighters. Unbeaten American Walsh secured the biggest win of his career, saying, 'It was a close fight, but I got the job done.' Conlan's professional career, which began with significant fanfare, was marked by notable bouts, including a knockout loss to Leigh Wood in 2022 and a stoppage loss to Luis Alberto Lopez in 2023. This latest setback has prompted the 34-year-old to reconsider his future in boxing, potentially ending his pursuit of a world title.