Ex-middleweight champion Andy Lee retires aged from boxing 33 after over ‘lack of fight options’ to be dedicated daddy
Irish hero has a baby daughter and wants to dedicate himself to more family time after reaching the top
ANDY LEE - the former WBO middleweight champion of the world - has retired aged just 33.
The Irishman, who lost his crown to Billy Joe Saunders in a brilliant 2015 battle – has hung up his gloves due to a lack of big-fight options and a dedication to fatherhood.
After an impressive amateur career, Lee took the brave decision to sign with boxing legend Manny Steward and made his name in America.
The heavy-handed southpaw was stopped by Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in his first world title shot in 2012 but earned another crack at gold two years later.
In a Las Vegas battle with Matt Korobov, Lee produced a devastating performance to win in the sixth round.
Lee said: “I've actually achieved everything I wanted to in the game.
"I've had an amazing career and an amazing life through boxing. It's defined my life.
"I kept myself available to see what my options were but none of the fights or none of the offers were big enough to get me to go back.
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“I have responsibilities now to my wife and daughter and to be away from them for a fight it would take a lot now.
"I have seen better boxers than me carry on too long so it is nice to be going out on my terms.
"I told my wife, first and foremost, but until today I never really how happy she was because she maybe did not believe it. She is relieved."
Lee retired after 35 wins, 3 losses and one draw - with an excellent reputation and a promising future in punditry.
Tributes poured in for the down-to-earth star, Irish heavyweight Martin Rogan said: “Great times watching you do your thing.
"I wish you all success in your future adventures bud.
And Saunders said: “Happy Retirement pal a true worrier and honoured to have shared a ring with you, stay blessed.”