Luke Campbell Announces His Retirement From Boxing
Luke Campbell has announced his retirement from boxing at 33-years-old.
The Olympic gold medallist was last seen in action against Ryan Garcia earlier this year. Campbell dropped the undefeated prospect early but was unable to capitalize and was ultimately stopped with a body shot in round seven.
‘Cool Hand’ walks away from the sport with an impressive 20-4 record. Campbell picked up several high-profile wins during his career, beating the likes of Tommy Coyle, Derry Matthews and Yvan Mendy on route to multiple world title shots.
Campbell pushed Jorge Linares all the way when they fought for the WBA and WBC lightweight titles in 2017. The Englishman can consider himself unlucky to have been on the wrong side of a split judge’s decision.
A second shot at world honours came against Vasyl Lomachenko who at the time was considered the best pound-for-pound fighter in boxing. Campbell gave a brave and valiant effort but was unable to make any real dent in the Ukrainian phenom and ultimately suffered a wide points defeat.
Campbell took to social media on Friday to announce his decision to retire.
“After a lot of thought and reflection, I have decided that now is the right time to hang-up my gloves and retire from boxing.
As soon as I first stepped into St. Paul’s Amateur Boxing Club in Hull, my dream was always to win the Olympics. By winning gold at London 2012, in front of home support and my family, I had in many ways already achieved my hopes and aspirations in the sport before my professional career even started.
“So, while for many turning pro is where it all begins, for me it was more of a bonus and what a bonus it turned out to be, achieving more than I ever expected and giving me memories I will never forget.
“From making my debut at Craven Park, to fighting at Wembley, beating domestic rivals, competing against pound-for-pound stars in America and here in the UK, headlining pay-per-views and always willing to take on anybody, it’s been an incredible ride.
“The past year in boxing though has been tough. An extremely long training camp away from family meant I was only able to spend a few days with my newborn child and also resulted in me having Christmas apart from them on the other side of the world,.”
“It’s in these moments that you realise what is truly important in life. I’ve lived my dreams and accomplished more than I ever imagined I would. In the same way that my dad was able to witness my greatest achievements, I want to be able to do that for my children and make sure I’m always there to see their biggest triumphs.
“Boxing has been a part of who I am since the age of 13 and I would not have been able to reach half the heights I have without the incredible support of my wife Lyndsey, who has been with me every step and every punch of the way. I cannot wait to spend more time with you and our three beautiful boys. And now for the next chapter, I’m excited to get started.
Are you disappointed to see Luke Campbell walk away from the sport?
