Briedis Announces Retirement

Former cruiserweight champion (up to 90.7 kg), Latvian boxer Mairis Briedis (28-3, 20 KOs), has announced his retirement from professional boxing. The 39-year-old fighter shared his decision on his social media.

"Dear friends, fans, and loved ones,

25 years ago, I stepped into the unknown, putting on boxing gloves for the first time, not yet knowing that it would lead me to a career as a professional athlete. Over time, boxing became my passion, my career, and a big part of my life.

Today, I want to share a decision that was not easy for me. First of all, because the path I have walked over these years was filled with many unforgettable moments and the joy of victories. It made me who I am today and gave me the opportunity to achieve new goals and accomplishments, motivating me to always strive for more.

This drive to achieve more, however, also had a downside, where I was not always able to fully express myself and my intentions in some situations, which remains something I still need to work on in the future.

But despite everything, with deep gratitude to everyone who supported or motivated me at any point, or simply followed my progress, I wanted to say 'thank you' for these 25 years and officially announce my retirement from professional boxing.

Every fight, especially those held in Latvia, was special to me. I always felt incredible support, and it was this support that inspired me to aim for even greater goals and achievements. As I always said: 'My drug is my people.' This support and the energy I felt from you made my boxing career unforgettable.

In any case, boxing was not just a career – it was a life filled with passion, emotions, and dreams. But it’s time to say goodbye to the ring and open a new chapter in my life.

I remain your Mairis Briedis and promise to continue sharing my experience, helping new generations of boxers, and inspiring everyone who follows their dreams. Let this story be an example of what can be achieved when the heart is on fire, that mistakes can be corrected by learning from them, and most importantly – that you can rise after falling and move forward.

Onward to new goals.

With love and respect, Mairis Briedis"

Mairis Briedis was a world champion in the WBC, WBO, and IBF organizations. His last fight took place on May 18 against Jai Opetaia (25-0, 19 KOs), where Briedis lost by unanimous decision.