TYRONE McKenna has announced his retirement from professional boxing after his loss to city rival Lewis Crocker in the unofficial Battle of Belfast on Saturday night.
Crocker won the WBA continental European title with a display of ferocious intensity that was too much for battling McKenna who was typically fearless to the finish of the 10-round scrap. A box office draw throughout his career, he finishes with a record of 23 wins, four losses (all against quality opponents) and one draw. A warrior to his core, he never shirked a challenge over 11 years as a prizefighter and became a firm favorite with fight fans.
“That’s it for ‘The Mighty Celt’ people,” he posted on social media.
“I've given a lot to this sport and got way further than I ever thought possible when sleeping on the floors in Philadelphia, never thought I’d be in some of the huge nights I was part of.
“I set out to try and become the most entertaining man in Ireland always taking the hardest fights put to me even when I didn’t have to. I had some amazing nights with you all – win, lose or draw I hope I did you all proud..
“The one title no-one will take any time soon is the hardest man in Ireland. I can take a shot like no other man on this island.”
