Former unified world champion Amir Khan has announced his retirement from boxing.
The 35-year-old broke the news today on his social media. The decision comes just five days on from Kell Brook hanging up the gloves. Brook and Khan’s last fight in their careers came against one another earlier this year which ended with conclusive victory for Brook.
“It’s time to hang up my gloves,” Khan said today.
“I feel blessed to have had such an amazing career that has spanned over 27 years. I want to say a heartfelt thanks and to the incredible teams I have worked with and to my family, friends and fans for the love and support they have shown me.”
Khan burst onto the boxing scene 18 years ago winning a silver medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
‘King Khan’ was then born as he made his way into the professional ranks beginning with his debut against David Bailey on July 16, 2005. From there the Bolton fighter had success in the U.K and U.S. The Commonwealth title would come against Willie Limond in 2007 but one year later he suffered a career shattering defeat to Breidis Prescott in just one round.
Renowned for his heart and guts Khan bounced back in 2009 by winning his first world title at 140lbs against Andriy Kotelnik. Wins against Paulie Malignaggi, Marcos Maidana would follow, as well as a super-lightweight unification victory over Zab Judah. And while losses to Lamont Peterson and Danny Garcia derailed his high expectations for greater heights his popularity rarely drifted. His all-action style combined with explosive hand speed and frailties made him must-watch television.
Khan proved his minerals by moving up to 160lbs to challenge Canelo Alvarez and after a solid start he was knocked out in the sixth round.
A memorable career has finally come to an end and everyone at Boxing Social wishes him a happy retirement.