Amir Khan Retirement: Boxing Icons, Fans React to Shocking Decision

Amir Khan has announced his retirement from professional boxing, a career that ran for almost 30 years, decorated with multiple titles and memorable fights.

The 35-year- old British boxing icon posted on Twitter that time to "hang up" his gloves had finally arrived.

"I feel blessed to have had such an amazing career that has spanned over 27 years. I want to say a heartfelt thanks to the incredible teams I have worked with and to my family, friends, and fans for the love and support they have shown me."

With 40 professional fights under his belt, the Bolton native has 34 wins and six losses to his record. Khan won several Welterweight titles before moving up to the Middleweight class to compete for titles, per The Mirror.

Before Amir Khan's retirement news, his final fight happened last month against Kell Brook Brook, a long-time foe and a match that many boxing fans never expected to witness.

Despite Khan's strong start, which featured his signature lightning-quick punches, Brook was able to dominate the fight, and the referee eventually stepped in to stop Khan from suffering any further pounding.

With a warm embrace in the ring after the bell, both boxers acknowledge each other's greatness.

Amazing Boxing Career

Khan initially gained fame as a 17-year-old at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, where he succumbed to Mario Kindelan in the lightweight final.

But by winning the silver medal, he became the UK's youngest Olympic boxing medalist, as per a report from Sky News. In his last amateur match, which was shown live to millions of people, he got his revenge on the Cuban.

He also had a fantastic professional career, winning the WBA and IBF Light Welterweight Titles and being the Unified Light Welterweight Champion.

According to Sportskeeda, Khan's most memorable victories include a victory over Argentinian pressure fighter Marcos Maidana. The fight was for his WBA Light Welterweight Championship, which he successfully defended by unanimous decision.

Khan's battle against Devon Alexander at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas in 2014 was arguably one of his most outstanding. In only his second bout at welterweight, he won by unanimous decision. Khan received scores of 120-108, 119-109, and 118-110.

After his victory in the division below, this was the bout that showed what Amir Khan could accomplish in this weight class.

In another showdown, the Brit outboxed Pauli Malignaggi. Khan used his jab to control the battle until the referee stopped it with the American wounded on the ropes.

Boxing Icons and Fans React to Khan's Retirement

Following Amir Khan's retirement announced on social media, several fans and fellow boxing icons reacted to the news.

In a Sky News interview, former WBO World Cruiserweight Champion Johnny Nelson expressed his admiration for Khan.

"He was pure entertainment...I am so happy about that because I've seen this guy. This guy's got to be the fastest fighter I've ever seen live." Nelson added that he is happy with his decision and for his family.

Former Bantamweight champion Stuart Hall tweeted: "great career Amir."

Henry Coyle, Irish former professional boxer and former WBF World Champion, wished Khan well in his post-boxing life.

"Congrats on a Great career you are a living legend and great of the sport of boxing you lived the Dream and achieved so much. Good Luck and Good Health to you and your family always honored to have witnessed your talent first hand Bulgaria 2004," he tweeted.

Fans also paid tribute to their Khan and how he impacted their lives.

A user named Omar tweeted: "You got me into boxing and are a true legend! The hall of fame awaits. You were our Poster boy to look up to who showed us we can achieve things."

Another user named Imzee posted: "Still remember growing up rooting for you in the Olympics like it was yesterday. You did country and yourself proud!

Tags

Boxing, Uk