Floyd Mayweather has announced his retirement from the ring, citing a lack of desire and joy as the reasons for hanging up his gloves.
Pretty Boy finishes with perfect record having won six world titles
Floyd Mayweather has announced his retirement from the ring, citing a lack of desire as one of the main reasons behind his decision.
Considered the current best pound-for-pound fighter in the world, Pretty Boy hangs up his gloves with a perfect 39-0 record as a professional.
The American's last bout saw him retain his WBC welterweight crown with a 10th-round stoppage of Britain's Ricky Hatton in Las Vegas.
He was next scheduled to face Oscar De La Hoya for a second time after winning the first fight between the pair by split decision back in May 2007.
Amazing career
However, Mayweather has instead opted to call time on an amazing 11-year career that has seen him win six world titles at five different weights.
"I have decided to permanently retire from boxing," the 31-year-old said in a statement.
"This decision was not an easy one for me to make, because boxing is all I have done since I was a child.
"However, these past few years have been extremely difficult for me to find the desire and joy to continue in the sport.
"I am sorry I have to leave the sport at this time, knowing I still have my God-given abilities to succeed and future multi-million pay-days ahead, including the one right around the corner.
"But there comes a time when money doesn't matter. I just can't do it any more. I have found a peace with my decision that I have not felt in a long time."
Future plans
The shock announcement will certainly alter the future plans of De La Hoya and Hatton, who suffered defeat for the first time when he was stopped by Mayweather last year.
The Mancunian, who recently won his comeback fight against the experienced Juan Lazcano, had been keen for a rematch, possibly at Wembley Stadium.
Most recently Mayweather had been seen inside a ring of a different kind, competing at WrestleMania XXIX in March.
He also took part in the television programme 'Dancing with the Stars' and served as the honorary starter for the 92nd Indianapolis 500.
