Irish boxer Glenn Byrne has been forced to retire after suffering a brain bleed during a fight.
Byrne, who has retired with a record of 7-1-1, suffered the injury during a fight against former World Champion Anthony Crolla’s brother William during a Matchroom event in Altrincham.
Byrne had knocked Crolla down three times during the second round, but the bout was allowed to continue, and Crolla would land a heavy KO punch.
Byrne was rushed to the hospital in the aftermath of the fight, and he’s now confirmed that he is no longer medically cleared to compete.
The 29-year-old posted a lengthy tribute on Instagram, captioning it: ‘The journey has come to an end. Not in the way I ever wanted, but unfortunately, after my last fight, I am no longer medically cleared to compete.
‘The damage I suffered resulted in a bleed on my brain, and doctors have advised me not to continue fighting. I’m devastated, to say the least, but I’m also very fortunate that my injuries weren’t worse and that I’m in good health.’
He added: ‘Looking back, I can only be proud of my career – 9 fights, 7 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. I got to fight in venues I could only have dreamed of: the 3Arena, SSE Arena, Ulster Hall, Manchester, and the National Stadium. Fighting live on TV multiple times was incredible, and co-main eventing on a Matchroom card is something I’ll never forget.
‘Boxing started as a hobby for me, but it’s something I always gave 100% to, and I truly believe I earned every opportunity that came my way. A big thank you to Jay Byrne, who coached me from day one, believed in me, and helped create those opportunities. The countless hours we put in together, when you look from my debut to my last fight, you can see the improvements and just how good a coach he is.
‘To my beautiful girlfriend Shannon, the sacrifices she has made to help me chase my dreams, through all the highs and lows, never once stepping away. She’s helped me in more ways than I can ever explain. I’m incredibly lucky to have her by my side, and I’m excited for the next chapter of our lives together.’
His promoters, JB Promotions, which is run by Glenn’s brother Jay Byrne, also posted a fitting tribute on their Instagram.
‘Our first ever signing and he was 1 of 2 lads we set this business up for..
‘We never thought on day 1 that his career would be ended this way..
Glenn Byrne must retire from professional boxing due to injuries sustained in his last fight on April 3rd.
‘A career that had really looked so promising, especially in round 2 on April 3rd, when he did the unthinkable and should have ripped the script up by having his opponent down 3 times in 1 minute 11 seconds.
‘Nights in Dublin’s 3 Arena, Belfast’s SSE Arena, Belfast’s Ulster Hall, Dublin’s National Stadium, where all great memories for a kid with a dream..
They added how his journey is one to be admired. ‘His career is one that all kids, late teens, and people in their early 20s can look at and believe that they can do it if they apply themselves to the sport, as that’s what Glenn has done so well.
‘Glenn will stay with JB Promotions, and an announcement on what’s next for him will come in due course. For now, we want to thank Glenn for his trust in us to guide his career & we promise to continue our fight for him.’
