Glenn Byrne has revealed he has been forced to retire from boxing after suffering a bleed on his brain during a fight earlier this month.
The Dubliner suffered the first defeat of his career against William Crolla, the younger brother of former WBA lightweight champion Anthony, on a Matchroom card at Planet Ice, Altrincham.
Byrne knocked the Manchester man down four times in the super-welterweight contest, with three of those coming in the second round, and many felt Byrne should have had his hand raised in victory then.
However, the bout was allowed to continue, with Crolla landing a heavy KO in the seventh round to move to 10-1 as a pro, while Byrne’s record stands at 7-1-1 following his first loss.
The 29-year-old was taken to hospital after being attended to in the ring following the bout and has now revealed he is ‘no longer medically cleared to compete’.
Showing his class as always, Byrne admits he is ‘very fortunate’ that his injuries weren’t worse as he reflected on what has been an incredible journey for the Loughlinstown man, who took up boxing as a hobby.
He wrote on Instagram: “The journey has come to an end. Not in the way I ever wanted, but unfortunately after my last fight I am no longer medically cleared to compete.
“The damage I suffered resulted in a bleed on my brain, and doctors have advised me not to continue fighting. I’m devastated, to say the least, but I’m also very fortunate that my injuries weren’t worse and that I’m in good health.
“Looking back, I can only be proud of my career – 9 fights, 7 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. I got to fight in venues I could only have dreamed of: the 3Arena, SSE Arena, Ulster Hall, Manchester, and the National Stadium. Fighting live on TV multiple times was incredible, and co-main eventing on a Matchroom card is something I’ll never forget.
“Boxing started as a hobby for me, but it’s something I always gave 100% to, and I truly believe I earned every opportunity that came my way.A big thank you to @jay_byrne_boxing, who coached me from day one, believed in me, and helped create those opportunities. The countless hours we put in together, when you look from my debut to my last fight, you can see the improvements and just how good a coach he is.
“To my beautiful girlfriend @shannonsol1 the sacrifices she has made to help me chase my dreams, through all the highs and lows, never once stepping away. She’s helped me in more ways than I can ever explain. I’m incredibly lucky to have her by my side, and I’m excited for the next chapter of our lives together.
“To @stigabc, who was always there to help – an unsung hero in Irish boxing. He’s played a massive part in my career and has been like a brother to me. To @matthew.tyndall.9, @matthewtyndall_jr, and @seantyndall05, who helped me massively at the beginning. I spent a lot of time working with them, and those early days were crucial to my development.
“To @tommymc1976, the best cutman in the game. Not just that, but the calmest man in the dressing room -someone who makes every situation better. I’m very grateful for all the time he gave me.
“To my mother @debbiebyrne12 who supported me from the very start. She made sure I had everything I needed, kept me fed, and helped ensure every weigh-in went smoothly.”
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JB Promotions, run by the boxer’s brother and former pro Jay Byrne, who managed and promoted the Dubliner from day one, paid tribute to him following Wednesday’s announcement.
They said on Instagram: “Our first ever signing and he was 1 of 2 lads we set this business up for..
“We never thought on day 1 that his career would be ended this way..
“Glenn Byrne must retire from professional boxing due to injuries sustained on his last fight on April 3rd.
“A career that had really looked so promising especially in rd2 on April 3rd when he done the unthinkable and should of ripped the script up by having his opponent down 3 times in 1 min 11seconds..
“Nights in Dublins 3 arena, Belfast SSE Arena, Belfasts Ulster Hall, Dublins National Stadium where all great memories for a kid with a dream..
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“His career is one all kids, late teens and people in their early 20s can look at and believe that they can do it if they apply themselves to the sport as thats what Glenn done so good.
“Glenn will stay with JB Promotions and an announcement on whats next for him will come in due course.
“For now we want to thank Glenn for his trust in us to guide his career & we promise to continue our fight for him..”