Toowoomba boxer calls time on career

Toowoomba boxer Kris George calls time on professional career

HANGING UP GLOVES: Toowoomba boxer Kris George has called time on his professional career. Picture: Nev Madsen

BOXING: Kris George lost his Commonwealth welterweight championship in his last professional fight.

However, the Toowoomba boxer enters retirement with his head held high, a heart full of pride and no regrets.

"When I started it (boxing) I never dreamed it would be this big,” George said.

"I never expected to this get this far or achieve what I have.

"I never thought I'd be a Queensland or world champion

"I think I've reset my goals about ten times since I turned professional.

"It's been a fantastic ride.”

George, who turns 29 soon, announced his retirement last week after to talking one of Australia's leading surgeons about his hands.

George broke both his hands in his last fight - his defeat to Englishman Josh Kelly.

"I've broken ten metacarpal bones in four years,” he said.

"Unfortunately talking to the surgeon, he said it was highly unlikely that I would be able to get through future fights without breaking bones in my hands.

"When it happens in a fight it doesn't hurt that much - I remember the first time it felt like the padding had shifted in my glove.

"It stills hurt but I think the biggest issue is your body and mind automatically start restricting.

"You stop throwing with as much power and confidence and that works in your opponent's favour.

"You don't just throw a punch to knock someone out - you throw them to take away your opponent's confidence and establish yours.”

With boxing a part of his life since he was 11, George has experienced plenty of highs and lows but it's a "purple patch” that began in 2016 he remembers most vividly.

"I always tried to take the best fights - the tough ones,” George said.

"My fight with Bowyn Morgan in 2016 stands out.

"Going over there (New Zealand) and fighting the undefeated local on his home turf, the crowd right behind him,being the big fight on the undercard - it was special.

"Things really speed up from there. All the fights were coming in and I just couldn't say no.

"At the same time I was trying to grow my business (Fish 'n' Bits Bait and Tackle) it was all very fast paced.

"Had I known what I know now three years ago I'd still be boxing but I've never lived my life worrying about ifs, buts or could have beens.”

Now George will focus on slowing down for a while.

"I'm looking forward to spending more time with my boys - really living the family life,” he said.

"And it will be good to invest more time in the business again.

"I've already had some offers about coaching and I'm sure I'll get the boxing itch again.

"But for now I'm just going to take it easy.”

Originally published as Toowoomba boxer calls time on career