Former cruiserweight world champion Mairis Briedis has officially announced his retirement from boxing at the age of 39, closing the chapter on a distinguished career that saw him compile a record of 28-3 with 20 knockouts. Briedis, who is widely regarded as one of the best cruiserweights of his generation, last fought in May, where he suffered a loss in his rematch for the IBF title against Australia's Jai Opetaia on the undercard of the Tyson Fury-Oleksandr Usyk event.
Throughout his career, the Latvian fighter captured multiple world titles, including the WBC and WBO belts, and earned a reputation for being a formidable opponent in the ring. His 2018 bout against Oleksandr Usyk in the World Boxing Super Series is often cited as one of Usyk's toughest fights, where Briedis pushed the future undisputed champion to a majority decision loss.
Watch Opetaia vs. Briedis highlights: Watch
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Briedis reflected on his 25-year journey in the sport, expressing gratitude for the experiences and support he received along the way. "Boxing became my passion, career, and a big part of my life. But it’s time to say goodbye to the ring and open a new chapter in my life."* He thanked his fans and supporters, particularly those in Latvia, who he said made his boxing career "unforgettable."
Briedis made his professional debut in 2009 and quickly rose through the ranks, achieving his first world title in 2017 by defeating Marco Huck for the WBC cruiserweight belt. Despite a setback against Usyk, he regained a world title in 2019, although his victory over Kryzysztof Glowacki was marred by controversy. Briedis went on to win the IBF title in 2020, defeating Yuniel Dorticos, and successfully defended it before losing to Opetaia in 2022.
After a lengthy layoff due to injury, Briedis returned to the ring in May 2024 but was unable to reclaim his former glory, losing once again to Opetaia. With his retirement, Briedis leaves behind a legacy as one of the toughest and most accomplished cruiserweights of his era, and now looks forward to the next chapter of his life.
Most boxers can only dream about such a career! Read more about it here.
Image Credit: World Boxing Super Series