The former two-time world champion Kiko Martinez has called it a day, as the 37-year-old announced his retirement from boxing.
He leaves the sport having been the IBF super bantamweight champion when he beat Jonatan Romero in an upset win.
“This is a dream come true for me. [Ring announcer] Michael Buffer called out my name. This is a dream. I am super-happy. I have no words. All I want to do is give my daughter a kiss when I get home,” Martinez stated
Kiko Martínez retires from boxing. https://t.co/QHkj6PUWsd pic.twitter.com/GAJ52hZwKK
— World Boxing Council (@WBCBoxing) August 23, 2023
In the aftermath, Martinez managed to retain his belt for another two fights. However, he would come up short against Carl Frampton.
But that was not the end of it. Martinez secured another title by knocking out Kid Galahad to win the IBF title at 126 pounds.
And yet, in the latter parts of his career, it became clear that Martinez was declining. The boxer was stopped twice in his last three fights, as he ended his career with a record of 44-12-2.
“I want to announce that it is time to say goodbye to boxing and leave healthy from this beautiful sport that I love so much,” Martinez
Social Media Reaction
Happy retirement champ from everyone in Ireland 🇮🇪 👊 you were great fighter
— Martin (@Martin69944034) August 23, 2023
Respect Happy retirement Kiko a true legend 🥊🔥🥊🔥🙏🏿🙏🏿🏆
— Lisa Bails (@LLB123456_) August 20, 2023
Very underrated
— Jamie (@Jamienufc23) August 20, 2023