Former Opponent of Usyk Reveals Why He Quit Boxing After Defeat by the Ukrainian
Date: 2023-12-05 Author: Dima Zakharov Categories: SPORT
Tony Bellew's Candid Revelation
Tony Bellew, the former heavyweight champion, recently opened up about his decision to retire from professional boxing following his defeat against Oleksandr Usyk, the Ukrainian boxer who knocked Bellew out in 2018.
Concerns for Health
The British boxer admitted that his primary reason for hanging up his gloves was concerns about his health. Bellew expressed serious worries, stating that a professional boxer typically endures around 50,000 head punches per year, totaling up to approximately 1.1 million strikes to the head over a career. Bellew emphasized the dangers inherent in such a sport and how these impacts could manifest in the long term.
Acceptance and Resignation
Reflecting on his career, Bellew mentioned his acceptance of the risks associated with boxing. He acknowledged that being a boxer meant being aware of the potential consequences. He stressed that if, due to the punches sustained during his career, he ended up in a coma, he wouldn't hold anyone else responsible but himself. Bellew underlined his choice to pursue boxing and his preparedness to face the adversities it brings.
Post-Fight Insights
Bellew recounted conversations with his wife, where he warned her about the tough battles and the possibility of severe shock at some point. He highlighted the need to accept these inherent risks as part and parcel of the sport.
Reminiscing the Usyk Bout
The fight between Tony Bellew and Oleksandr Usyk took place in November 2018. Usyk emerged victorious, delivering a knockout blow in the 8th round, defending his title as the undisputed world champion in the heavyweight category. Post this fight, Bellew decided to retire from professional boxing.
Bellew's Career Statistics
Throughout his career, Tony Bellew participated in 34 fights, securing 30 victories, suffering three losses, and concluding one bout in a draw.
This candid revelation from Bellew sheds light on the tough decisions athletes face regarding their well-being in a sport as demanding as boxing, prompting reflections on the importance of health and the risks involved in professional sports.
