Boxing Gloves \ Getty Images

Britain’s Only Male Undisputed Champion Calls It a Career

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Jul 21, 2025 11:40 AM ET

An era-defining champion steps away after doctors warn of severe eye damage risk

Boxing is a brutal sport—one where getting to the top takes everything, and staying there takes even more. Champions rise, only to face relentless challenges from younger, hungrier contenders. But eventually, every fighter must make a decision no warrior wants to face: the time to hang up the gloves. Today, one beloved British champion has decided to take that step, marking the end of a historic era.

Josh Taylor, 34, famously known as The Tartan Tornado, didn’t just climb the mountain—he conquered it. In May 2021, Taylor shook the boxing world when he became the first British fighter to achieve undisputed status in the four-belt era at junior welterweight.

He held the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO titles, cementing his place among the sport’s elite. Today, in an emotional message on social media, he announced his retirement:

‘Right folks, this isn't an easy post for me to write, but on the advice of my doctors, it's sadly a necessary one… I've had a recurring issue with my eye that unfortunately means I now have to call time on my career or risk losing my eyesight… It is certainly not the way I wanted to bow out, but I have to listen to the doctors and those around me.’

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Josh Taylor (@joshtaylorbox1)

Taylor’s run was remarkable—wins over Viktor Postol, Ivan Baranchyk for the IBF title, Regis Prograis in the WBSS final, and the crowning moment against José Ramírez for undisputed glory. But roadblocks came: a controversial win over Jack Catterall followed by crushing losses to Teofimo Lopez and Catterall in a rematch.

Now, one of Britain’s finest exits the ring, not on his terms, but with a legacy no injury can erase.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: