Michael Conlan Announces Retirement After Second Loss to Jordan Gill
Belfast’s Michael Conlan has announced his retirement from professional boxing following a December 2023 defeat to Jordan Gill at the SSE Arena, a result that echoed a previous loss to Gill and prompted a period of reflection on his career.
The decision comes after a 16-month hiatus and a subsequent return to the ring with a points win over Asad Asif Khan in March 2025, followed by a stoppage victory over Jack Bateson in Dublin six months later. Despite these comeback wins, the SSE Arena once again proved to be a difficult venue for Conlan, leading to his decision to hang up his gloves.
A Close Contest, A Difficult Decision
While acknowledging the fight was closely contested, Conlan recognized that his performance hadn’t reached the level required to challenge reigning champions. Jordan Gill, after the fight, expressed respect for Conlan, stating, “Shout out to Mick Conlan – I’ve always been a fan of his but he couldn’t figure me out. He’s been a helluva fighter, but his time’s up.”
Conlan confirmed Gill’s assessment, reflecting on his career and the sacrifices made. “Boxing has given me an unbelievable life,” he said. “I can never be bitter with the situation because it gives you so much and takes so much. I’ve always said you can never love the sport as it will never love you back.”
Family First
A significant factor in Conlan’s decision was the impact his boxing career had on his family life. He revealed missing approximately 65-70% of his children’s lives due to training camps and commitments. “I’m a stubborn person and would want to keep going, but I’ve missed a lot of my family’s lives. I’ve two kids, my daughter is 11 next week and my son is seven. It’s time to head home.”
A Career of Achievements, But No World Title
Despite a successful career that included representing Ireland at the Olympics and fighting in major arenas worldwide, Conlan fell short of his ultimate goal of becoming a world champion. “I’ve achieved an awful lot but have I reached my goal of becoming a world champion? No, and that’s the hardest part of all.”
Conlan’s professional record stands at 18 wins and 3 losses Boxingscene.