Canadian heavyweight boxer Simon Kean, at 35 years old, has chosen to bid adieu to his boxing career, a path that brought him global recognition and personal transformation. Kean’s journey in the ring, spanning over 70 amateur fights including an appearance at the 2012 London Olympics and 25 professional bouts with 23 wins (22 by knockout), is marked by remarkable achievements and challenging setbacks, symbolizing the life of a dedicated athlete.
Kean’s foray into boxing, initially a means to bring structure to a turbulent life, evolved into a remarkable adventure, taking him across the globe and allowing him to realize his full athletic potential. His rise in the sport was meteoric, capturing the junior championship title in 2007 and stepping onto the national stage as a Canadian team member. His notable performances led to his participation in Olympic qualifications, culminating in his 2012 Olympics appearance where he triumphed over France’s Tony Yoka before bowing out to Kazakhstan’s Ivan Dychko.
Turning professional in 2015, Kean made an explosive entry with 15 consecutive knockout wins. However, his journey wasn’t without obstacles. His first professional defeat came at the hands of Dillon Carman, a loss he avenged in a dramatic rematch. Kean’s resilience in the ring saw him steadily climb the ranks, contending for titles such as the IBO Inter-Continental, NABF heavyweight, and the WBC Francophone, Silver, and International belts.
Kean’s final bout in October last year, where he was knocked out by former world champion Joseph Parker, marked the end of his boxing chapter. His retirement is not just the conclusion of an athletic career but a testament to the spirit of a fighter who found in boxing a medium for self-discipline, global recognition, and the realization of a dream that began in a small Canadian town. As he hangs up his gloves, the “Grizzly” leaves behind a legacy of determination and the heart of a champion.
Image Credit: Eye of the tiger