Irish Olympian Paddy Barnes has announced his retirement from professional boxing.
The Belfast man announced the news on social media this weekend that after 21 years he would be taking a step back from the sport.
Paddy won a bronze medals in the light flyweight division at the 2008 and 2012 Olympic games, as well as gold medal at the 2010 European Championships.
Taking to twitter, the boxer who turned professional in 2016, revealed the reasons behind his decision.
“After taking some time I’ve came to a decision to retire. I’ve had a great career and achieved so much.
“I have loved every minute of boxing, it has been my life for the past 21 years. I have achieved my dream of becoming an Olympian and getting to carry the Irish flag at the Olympic Games opening ceremony. Those moments were the proudest of my career.
“Professional boxing was never a dream of mine but I tried and threw myself into the deep end straight away. It didn’t work out but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I’d like to thank my family for supporting me throughout my entire career, my wife Mari for keeping my feet firmly on the ground and helping me towards my goals.
“I want to thank my parents Jimmy Linden, Gerry Storey, Seamy McCann and everyone at the Holy Family boxing club.
“Also the HP coaches John Conlan, Zauri Antia, Billy Walsh and Eddie Bolger. I would also like to thank my professional coach Danny Vaughan who has been great to me.”
We wish Paddy all the success in his future!
