For any athlete who has reached the pinnacle of their sport, the decision to retire is never easy. For Josh Taylor, that decision was taken out of his hands due to a devastating eye injury, marking the end of an illustrious boxing career.

The Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Taylor, known as 'The Tartan Tornado', revealed the heart-wrenching news to BBC Scotland two weeks after receiving the diagnosis that would halt his career. Following a routine check-up after his defeat by Ekow Essuman in May, extensive damage was found in his left eye. Initial scans showed a tear in the retinal tissue, but further examination revealed six tears. The specialist's advice was clear: continue boxing, and risk permanent blindness.

A Career to Remember

Taylor's career is one that many fighters can only dream of. A Commonwealth Games gold medallist, an Olympian, and in 2021, he became the first—and so far only—male fighter from the UK to win four belts in a single division, achieving the status of undisputed light-welterweight world champion.

Despite consecutive defeats in his last three bouts, Taylor had hoped for 'one or two more fights' to end his career on a high note. However, the potential loss of his vision in one eye dashed any hopes of a fairytale ending.

The Emotional Toll

The sudden transition from active fighter to retired boxer has been difficult for Taylor to process. 'I'm feeling quite down in the dumps, to be honest,' said the 34-year-old. 'I've had two weeks to absorb it, but the more I think about it, the more upset I get.'

Taylor expressed his frustration at not being able to retire on his own terms, describing it as 'a kick in the teeth.' He acknowledged the achievements of his career but lamented the abrupt end, saying, 'It was kind of like falling straight off the edge of a cliff.'

Support from the Boxing Community

In this challenging period, Taylor has found solace in the overwhelming support from fans and fellow fighters. The messages of tribute and encouragement have helped lift his spirits and made him feel appreciated for his contributions to the sport.

'The messages of support that I've had has helped me, helped lift me because it's made me feel a little bit better, made me feel appreciated, made me feel that I've done good in the sport,' he shared.

Looking to the Future

Taylor is now contemplating his next steps. He is open to punditry work and plans to return to his roots at Lochend Boxing Club to mentor the next generation of fighters. 'Maybe we'll find the next Josh Taylor,' he said with a hint of optimism.

He also expressed a desire to open his own gym in East Lothian, continuing to contribute to the sport he loves, even if his time in the ring has come to an end.

A Legacy of Greatness

When asked how he would like to be remembered, Taylor reflected, 'I don't know, I've never thought about it. They're going to remember me any way they want, but I would like to hope they thought I was an all-action kind of fighter and wasn't afraid to take a fight. Someone that come up and took on all challenges and wasn't afraid to try to be great. Just a fighter.'