Bantamweight boxer Kash Farooq has revealed his shock saying that he has to retire from the sport at the age of just 26.
The star has hung up his gloves due to ‘unforeseen circumstances’ after 17 professional bouts, including 16 victories and times as British Bantamweight Champion and WBC International Champion.
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The Scottish supporter of Pakistani origin was last in action in August 2021 in a one-point victory over Luis Gerardo Castillo in the Matchroom’s ‘Fight Camp’ series.
He was also set to face fellow Scotsman Lee McGregor in an eagerly anticipated rematch at some point this year after their controversial first meeting in 2019.
But he revealed the sad news that his career was over earlier this week.
And in a statement released on Saturday, Farooq said: “It would be selfish of me to put myself in danger.
“Therefore, my trainer Craig [Dickson] And manager Ian Wilson has instructed me to heed the advice of medical professionals.
“It is still a shock for me, as it will be for many others. I am a young athlete who has so much to offer, with unspeakable potential and talent.”
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Farooq was also a part of Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing Promotion Company since 2019.
and company spokesperson couple: “Our best wishes are with Kash Farooq who has unfortunately had to retire due to unforeseen circumstances.
“No doubt destined for world honors. A brilliant fighter and top man.”
Farooq will remain in the game but will take on the role of ‘head of talent’ for St Andrews Sporting Club.
The only defeat of Farooq’s career came at the hands of Scottish rival McGregor.
The thrilling debut ended in a heatedly debated split decision victory for McGregor, and the 25-year-old has also reacted to the news of Farooq’s sudden retirement.
McGregor emotionally wrote on Facebook: “I am completely devastated to hear the news that @kashfarooq1 has had to retire from boxing.
“We both helped each other so much as amateurs to get into one of the best fights ever between 2 Scottish fighters from Scotland.
“We were on the verge of changing our lives forever in what was a highly anticipated rematch and it is heartbreaking that we will not get the special night we have all been waiting for.
“My thoughts are for @kashfarooq1 and his family and I will be in a heartbeat if there is anything I can do to help in the future.
“It was an honor to share the ring with you, I wish you all the best.”
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