Josh Taylor Called Time After an Undisputed Rise
Josh Taylor announced his retirement from boxing on July 21, 2025, citing medical advice about a recurring eye problem. The thirty-four-year-old former undisputed super-lightweight champion ended his professional career with nineteen wins, three defeats and thirteen knockouts.
Taylor said the decision protected his eyesight
In his public statement, Taylor said continuing to fight could put his vision at risk. He described retirement as necessary despite still wanting to compete and acknowledged the advice of doctors and those closest to him.
The announcement came after his May defeat to Ekow Essuman in Glasgow. That welterweight appearance had been an attempt to begin another championship pursuit after his achievements at 140 pounds.
Las Vegas supplied the defining championship night
Taylor became undisputed super-lightweight champion by defeating José Ramírez on May 22, 2021. The unanimous decision at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas brought together the WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO belts.
All three judges scored the bout 114–112. The victory completed a rise through championship competition that had already included his unification win over Regis Prograis.
The last results did not erase the earlier summit
Taylor successfully defended against Jack Catterall in 2022, recording his nineteenth consecutive professional win. He then lost decisions to Teófimo López, Catterall in their rematch, and Essuman.
His retirement therefore followed three setbacks, but his championship record retained a rare distinction: complete ownership of the four major belts in one division. The decision to stop closed that career on health grounds rather than through the final title opportunity he had hoped to pursue.
Sources
- WBC: retirement statement, medical advice and final record
- Reuters: July 21 announcement, Catterall defense and subsequent defeats
- Nevada commission: Ramírez fight date, venue and scorecards
- Sky Sports: Prograis unification and final career chapter
