Michael Conlan Retires After Shock Split-Decision Loss to Kevin Walsh

Belfast, Northern Ireland – Michael Conlan announced his retirement from professional boxing following a stunning split-decision defeat to Kevin Walsh at the SSE Arena in Belfast on Friday, March 20, 2026. The loss casts a shadow over the former world amateur champion’s hopes of securing another world title shot.

Walsh Stuns Conlan in Closely Contested Bout

The fight, described as a “drab affair” by the BBC , saw Walsh awarded two judges’ scorecards of 96-94, while Conlan received the third with a score of 97-93. The 33-year-old Walsh, hailing from Brockton, Massachusetts, remains undefeated with a record of 20-0. Conlan’s professional record now stands at 20-4.

Conlan Confirms Retirement

A visibly disappointed Conlan confirmed his decision to retire in a post-fight interview. “I said that the next defeat, no matter the circumstances, would be me finished with boxing and it has come,” Conlan told reporters . He expressed his belief that he had done enough to win but acknowledged he wasn’t at the level required to grow a world champion. “For me to become a world champion I need to be beating guys like that and beating them well. That was too close for comfort,” he stated.

A Career Cut Short

Conlan, a two-time Olympian and 2012 bronze medalist, had been aiming for a potential WBC featherweight champion bout against Bruce Carrington later in the year . Although, previous setbacks, including defeats to Leigh Wood in 2022, Luis Alberto Lopez in 2023, and Jordan Gill, had already presented significant challenges to his career trajectory . Despite a recent win over Jack Bateson in September, this latest loss proved decisive.

Walsh’s Career-Best Victory

For Kevin Walsh, the victory represents the pinnacle of his professional career. “It was a close fight,” Walsh said , “But I got it done.” The American fighter capitalized on the opportunity, securing a significant win against a well-respected opponent in his hometown.

Conlan’s Reflection

“I’m 34 now, too long in the tooth,” Conlan added . “I thought I won but it is what it is. I don’t want to do it anymore so it’s time to say goodbye to boxing.”