Less than two months after winning the vacant International Boxing Organisation (IBO) minimumweight title, highly-rated Nhlanhla ‘Mount Kilimanjaro’ Tyirha has dropped a bombshell, announcing that he’s retiring from the fistic sport.
Speaking to Ink Sport on Thursday afternoon, Mdantsane-born Tyirha revealed that circumstances beyond his control have forced him to turn his back on the sport he loves.
“I’m happy with where I am. However, I have decided to retire from boxing. This was not an easy decision to take, however, I have no choice. This is a difficult time for me. I’m going back home because there are things that need my attention there,” Tyirha said.
The former South African junior-flyweight champion added that he has already informed his promoter Loyiso Magqaza from Ground Up Sports Promotions as well as his trainer Saligh Dollie.
“I have informed my promoter about my decision and he begged me to stay on as a boxer. I told him that it was going to be very difficult for me to continue with boxing while there are things that I have to attend to at home, ” Tyirha remarked.
“Continuing with boxing while there are things that need my undivided attention won’t be fair because I won’t be able to concentrate fully on the sport. I have also told my trainer about the decision to quit and he understands now that I have explained everything to him.”
Tyirha quit the sport while things seemed to be falling into place for him as he won the International Boxing Federation (IBF) Intercontinental title last December and added the IBO crown in May.
Turning 26 next month, Tyirha has a professional of 13 victories with two knockouts and three losses. He’s rated ninth by both the World Boxing Council (WBC) and the IBF. – Monwabisi Jimlongo
This is a huge surprise to so many of us in the fistic sport. The guy worked so hard to be where he is . The best we can do is to respect his decision .
Best of luck in your future endeavours champ .