Woods announces retirement

Former world light-heavyweight champion Clinton Woods has announced his retirement following defeat to Tavoris Cloud.

Sheffield bomber quits after latest defeat

Former world light-heavyweight champion Clinton Woods has announced his retirement following defeat to Tavoris Cloud two weeks ago. The 37-year-old from Sheffield lost a unanimous points decision to the unbeaten American in his bid to reclaim the IBF title he lost to Antonio Tarver last year. But the manner of the defeat has caused the former British, Commonwealth and European champion to quit the ring after 15 years. "[Tavoris] Cloud was a really good fighter and he's young, while maybe I'm too old for that level," Woods told The Sheffield Star. "In my hey-day I'd have beaten him, but I have no excuses and I think my love affair with boxing is over. "There have been more ups than downs over 15 years. Beating Crawford Ashley for the European light-heavyweight title (in 1999) and winning the world title against Rico Hoye were the biggest highlights, along with beating Glen Johnson (2006). "It was good while it lasted and I am happy with what I achieved."