Boxer retires from the ring
SHEPSHED’S former English flyweight champion Louis Norman has announced his retirement from professional boxing.
Norman retires with a fight record of 14-8-1 with his last fight a stoppage defeat by Londoner Chris Bourke at the end of last December.
He can be proud of the fact he beat and took on the best domestically in the flyweight, super-flyweight and bantamweight divisions. Former foes include former WBC flyweight champion Charlie Edwards whom beat the Shepshed fighter on points for Louis’ English flyweight title in September 2015 as main support to Anthony Joshua at London’s O2 Arena.
He also shared the ring with world class operator Andrew Selby losing again bravely on points the following year (described in an interview with Boxing News Magazine as his toughest opponent ‘ he didn’t stop and was a tricky opponent’) and there were English title scraps with Nathan Reeve, Thomas Essomba and twice with Brummie Don Broadhurst (one split draw and one controversial split defeat).
Norman said: “There are many reasons why I’ve decided to retire from the sport. It’s just not there anymore. I’ve been a champion and I’ve achieved more than I could imagine. There was more I wanted to achieve but unfortunately it wasn’t meant to be.
“I’d like to thank my manager Carl Greaves. But most importantly my mum and dad who have sacrificed their lives for me to achieve what I can in boxing. My dad has taught me many things in boxing but also to be the man I am today.”
He added: “I’m not finished with boxing completely as it is my intention to become a trainer, so I can pass on my knowledge to young fighters and hopefully help my brother Benn win titles with me in his corner.”
Manager Carl Greaves said: “Louis’ had a good career and can be very proud. He fought the best and always gave a good account of himself: win, lose or draw. I’ve told him to enjoy his time with his young family, get his trainers licence and stay involved in the sport.
“Boxing has been a big part of his life and he will miss it. I’ve told him that I am here, if he needs anything.”
Looking to the future Norman said: “It’s now time for me to concentrate on being a husband and most importantly dad. I don’t want to miss the best years of Aurora’s life. But for now, thank you boxing. Who knows you never say never? I may come back in the future to earn some money. But for now, thank you everyone for your support.”