Johnny Garton has announced his retirement from boxing.
The 33-year-old Londoner is a former British champion at welterweight and had a rematch with Chris Jenkins lined up.
But Garton, who dropped a unanimous decision to the Welshman back in March 2019, has decided against the return and has instead decided to hang up his gloves.
In an emotional post on social media, ‘The Pexican’ revealed that his decision was influenced by the fact that he could no longer give his full attention to the sport.
“Writing this is breaking my heart because I love this sport so much,” he wrote. “I have decided it’s time to call it a day and hang up my gloves. Due to circumstances, I am unable to give a 100% to this sport and that isn’t good enough for me. I achieved my dream and had the privilege of lifting the Lonsdale belt and winning titles along the way, proving so many people wrong, time and time again.”
Southern Area, English, IBF European were among the other belts Garton had the privilege of lifting during a nine-year professional career.
“I jut want to say a huge thank you to my team at the iBox Gym [in Bromley, London], who are more like a family to me. They have been there for my boxing and personal problems over the years.”
Garton, who thanked numerous others in the post, including manager Andy Ayling and promoter Frank Warren, concluded with some more touching words.
“This has been such a hard decision for me to make and accept,” he added, “but I have to put my family first.”