By Murray Wenzel
Jeff Horn has officially hung up his boxing gloves, three years since he last left the ring.
The Brisbane 35-year-old called time on his career on Sunday at a media conference at Suncorp Stadium, exactly six years after he famously shocked legend Manny Pacquiao at the venue to win a world title.
“I’ve enjoyed my time, that’s for sure as a boxer, but now I’ve got more important work to do,” said Horn, as he announced his plan to teach anti-bullying tactics in Queensland schools.
“My next fight is definitely my biggest, and it’s personal, and it’s to try and protect every kid.”
Horn said he had turned million-dollar down offers to get back in the ring.
Horn (20-3-1) defended his WBO welterweight belt once, before a loss to Terence Crawford in Las Vegas in 2018.
He then beat Anthony Mundine and split two fights with Michael Zerafa, before Tim Tszyu stepped out of his shadows in a dominating victory in Townsville in August, 2020.
That loss felt like a swansong for Horn, but he had never confirmed his retirement despite remaining inactive.
The humble, tough champion and former teacher was bullied at school before taking up boxing, winning over the Australian boxing fraternity with his classic underdog story.
His new mission, launching Bullyproof Australia, will see Horn help train students and teachers in conflict management.
Horn’s huge upset win over Pacquiao has been credited for reviving the sport in Australia in the post-Kostya Tszyu era.
Jeff Horn on his way to stunning Manny Pacquiao at Suncorp Stadium in 2017.Credit: Getty
“It went through a lull – and the fight game is renowned for this – sometimes when you think you’re a nail away from sealing the coffin, someone will come in and take it to great heights,” champion coach Johnny Lewis said last year.
“It’s the fight that will define him and captured the nation’s imagination.”
AAP
News, results and expert analysis from the weekend of sport sent every Monday. Sign up for our Sport newsletter.