Boxing star Teofimo Lopez, 25, announces shock retirement just HOURS after stunning upset win over Josh Taylor
TEOFIMO LOPEZ has seemingly announced his retirement from boxing – just hours after his stunning world title upset.
The American shocked the world early on Sunday morning by dethroning WBO and Ring Magazine super-lightweight champion Josh Taylor.
Former unified lightweight king Lopez looked like his old self as he cruised to a points victory over the Scot at Theater at Madison Square Garden.
The 25-year-old – who has had boxing concerned for his mental well-being over the last year – hinted that he would walk away from the sport moments after becoming a two-division champion.
And he’s seemingly stuck to his word, writing on Instagram alongside a picture of himself as a child with his dad: “What a relief!
“Retired at the Top. Thank you boxing for the amazing life you’ve provided for myself and my entire loved ones!
“THE DOUBLE-GREATEST #JesusIsKing.”
Scores of Lopez’s 841,000 followers were quick to comment, with one saying: “Great fight last night.
“You put in a show. Great career too. God bless. Stay up!”
Another said: “Well done but your too young to retire.
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“But ultimately you know what’s best….don’t regret like Prince Naseem did.”
And another said: “Great performance. Beautiful Boxing. Great career.”
One remarked: “Bro what? this gotta be a joke
Another chimed in: “Sometimes it’s bigger then boxing.
“He must be dealing with a lot in life and want to focus on that.
“It’s nothing wrong with that mental health it’s more important.”
Defeat to Lopez was the first of Taylor’s professional career, but he offered no excuses.
He said: “It wasn’t my best, but the better man won.
“I felt amazing in the gym. Congratulations to Teofimo.
“I’d love to do it again. The lay-off had nothing to do with it. I’ve got no excuses, he was the better man tonight.”