Former cruiserweight world champion Mairis Briedis has retired, aged 39.
He last fought in May, when on the undercard of Tyson Fury-Oleksandr Usyk he lost his rematch for the IBF title with Jai Opetaia of Australia.
The Latvian also won the WBC and WBO titles during a fine career, and is regarded by some to have given the great Oleksandr Usyk his toughest fight before losing via majority decision in 2018 in the cruiserweight edition of the World Boxing Super Series.
“Dear friends, fans, and loved ones,” he wrote 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.”