THREE-TIME world cruiserweight champion Mairis Briedis has introduced his retirement from boxing.
The 39-year-old, who will rejoice his 40th birthday subsequent January, brings the curtain down on an expert profession which started in his native Latvia on October 11, 2009. His four-round factors win in opposition to Raulis Racilauskas kicked off a 15-year skilled profession which culminated in defeat in opposition to Jai Opetaia on Could 18, 2024.
In an announcement printed on social media, Briedis mentioned: “I wish to share a call that was not straightforward for me to make. Firstly, as a result of the highway that I’ve travelled through the years has been full of so many unforgettable moments and joys of victory, it has made me the particular person I’m right this moment and has allowed me to pursue new objectives and achievements.
“With the deepest gratitude to each one who has supported me or motivated me in some unspecified time in the future, or just adopted my journey, I wish to say thanks and formally announce the tip of my skilled profession.”
Twenty-eight wins, three defeats, 20 inside the space, eight world title fights (5 wins) and a three-time world cruiserweight champion. It’s a profession to look again on fondly and with pleasure.
Briedis could have been an eccentric character – who may neglect his pursuit of a money-maker in opposition to Jake Paul – however the Lativan legend may combat. And till Tyson Fury pushed Oleksandr Usyk all the best way of their undisputed heavyweight title conflict three months in the past it was Briedis who had given the Ukrainian wizard the hardest evening of his profession once they met in Riga almost seven years in the past. Their unification bout was not solely probably the greatest fights of 2018 however one of many best cruiserweight battles ever to have taken place.
Having misplaced to Usyk within the World Boxing Tremendous Collection semi-final Briedis managed to go one higher in 2020 defeating Yuriel Dorticos within the ultimate so as to add the Muhammad Ali Trophy to his cupboard of accolades.
However on Could 18 this yr Brieidis was to have his ultimate dance in Saudi Arabia in opposition to Opetaia in a rematch of their brutal encounter from July 2022 which the Australian gained on factors. Second time round Briedis confirmed the center and offensive stress we had change into accustomed to by battling again within the second half of the combat to push the world’s primary cruiserweight all the best way as soon as once more.
Former promoter Kalle Sauerland mentioned on social media, “Completely perceive your choice. On the similar time I’m blessed to have these great experiences collectively. The highs, the lows, the highs – in fact we’ll always remember profitable the World Boxing Tremendous Collection but in addition some memorable journeys collectively. Many, many completely satisfied recollections.”
Thanks for having me over into your camp Mairis. It was an expertise which helped develop me massively into the fighter I’m and proceed to be. It was an honour.
An excellent champion with an excellent document.
All the perfect for the long run 🙌🙌 https://t.co/kspUpeXOd1
— Chris Billam-Smith (@ChrisBillam) August 19, 2024
Boxing Information wish to want Mairis Briedis a cheerful retirement.
