Former undisputed super-lightweight king Josh Taylor has laced the gloves for the final time after doctors warned that a recurring eye issue could threaten his sight. The 34-year-old Scot broke the news on Instagram, saying medical specialists “sadly” advised him to step away or “risk losing my eyesight.”
Taylor’s decision follows a gritty but unsuccessful comeback in May, when he dropped a unanimous decision to Ekow Essuman in Glasgow - his third straight points defeat. Although the “Tartan Tornado” felt he edged that bout, the result and subsequent medical consultations prompted soul-searching that ended with today’s announcement.
The southpaw’s résumé remains one of the deepest in recent UK boxing memory. A 2019 win over Viktor Postol signalled his arrival, a razor-sharp war with Regis Prograis cemented elite status, and a masterclass against José Ramirez in 2021 made him the first Briton of the four-belt era to unify at 140 lbs. Even his controversial split-decision victory over Jack Catterall in 2022 couldn’t erase the magnitude of his earlier triumphs.
Watch Taylor vs. Essuman highlights: Watch
Taylor’s exit means fans will never see a final redemption arc, but it spares him the permanent damage that can accompany one fight too many. “It isn’t an easy post for me to write,” he admitted, “but the time has come.” British Boxing Board medical chief Dr Neil Scott confirmed the eye condition had been monitored and deemed incompatible with continuing at the sport’s highest level.
From Commonwealth Games gold to undisputed champion, Taylor’s nine-year professional ride delivered drama and Scottish pride in equal measure. The man who once stormed the division like a Highland gale now heads into retirement.
What was your best moment of Taylor's career?
Image Credit: Sky Sports