British boxer Kevin Mitchell has announced his retirement from the sport with immediate effect.
The 31-year-old, who was due to fight Edis Tatli for the European title later this year, won the British and Commonwealth titles in 2008.
He calls time on a career, which failed to yield a world title, but with a record of 39 victories from 44 fights.
"I was in the gym training for the Edis Tatli fight and I just didn't really feel that I have enough to go through the training once again," said Mitchell.
"I've been fighting for 22 years, it is a long time to be putting your body through all you have to do to get right for a fight and my body has said 'enough is enough'."
In January of last year, Mitchell turned in a fantastic display to beat Daniel Estrada in eight rounds to set up a world-title shot against WBC champion Jorge Linares at the O2 Arena.
Despite a gutsy performance, Mitchell was knocked down and stopped by Linares in the 10th round after suffering a bad cut.
Mitchell added: "I've had so many highlights but walking out at The O2 Arena for the Linares fight and hearing the fans cheering for me and seeing 'Forever Blowing Bubbles' was just an unbelievable feeling.
"I've always been close to the fight fans both in Britain and around the world, and I want to thank them for all their love and support.
"I like to think I was an exciting fighter that gave the fans value for money. I don't think they make fighters like me anymore; fighters that put it all on the line every time they fight."
His promoter Eddie Hearn added: "It's been an absolute pleasure working with Kevin Mitchell over the past few years.
"The fight against Linares was the stand out for me and without injury I believe Kevin would have become world champion that night. Kevin has been entirely dedicated to the sport under Tony Sims, my only regret is that we didn't all team up earlier in his career.
"He has a wonderful boxing brain and I truly believe he can go on to be a great coach if that's the path he wishes to take.
"He has been a wonderful servant to British boxing and I'm sure all fight fans will join me in wishing him the best and happiness in his retirement."
Source: PA
