Welsh middleweight Gary Lockett has hung up his gloves after admitting he had fallen out of love with boxing a long time ago.
Welshman hangs up his gloves on the back of Pavlik loss
Welsh middleweight Gary Lockett has hung up his gloves after admitting he had fallen out of love with boxing a long time ago.
The 31-year-old lost what turned out to be is final fight in Atlantic City as he challenged Kelly Pavlik for his world middleweight titles.
The big-hitting Welshman won 21 of his 30 victories inside the distance and suffered just two losses, but has now decided to call time on his career.
Lockett admits that he has found boxing a struggle for some time and it took a lot for him to get into great shape to face Pavlik - but he now has no doubt that his future lies outside the ring.
"It had become a battle for me in the gym," Lockett told
Boxing News.
"Although I was in the shape of my life for Pavlik, it wasn't easy getting motivated. I sort of fell out of love with the game.
"I got out with some money. And there have been more talented fighters than me who've earned nothing. I just can't go any further."
Lockett is now looking forward to his future, insisting that boxing was never his first love in his life.
"I've got a life outside boxing," he added. "My family comes first.
"Boxing wasn't my favourite pastime. I don't really mix with people in boxing or go to shows.
"I thank my close family for their support and perseverance."
