Tommy McCarthy has retired from boxing after a 23-year career, encompassing both amateur and professional levels. The 34-year-old boxer’s decision comes after his recent defeat to Steven Ward on March 1st at the SSE Arena in Belfast. McCarthy was stopped in the sixth round of that fight, leading him to conclude his boxing journey.
McCarthy shared his retirement announcement on Instagram, expressing pride in his accomplishments within the sport. While acknowledging some disappointment in not reaching his full potential as a world champion, he highlighted significant milestones.
He proudly noted his place in history as the first black athlete from his region to win a medal at the Commonwealth Games in his amateur career. He further made history as a professional by becoming the first Black Irish European Champion.
McCarthy reflected positively on his boxing career, mentioning the opportunities it provided for international travel, friendships, and financial gain.
Known as “The Lenadoon Warrior,” McCarthy concludes his career with a professional record of 21 wins and 7 losses, with 10 wins by knockout. Following a successful amateur career and a period in the World Series of Boxing, he turned professional under the guidance of the late Pat Magee. He built a winning streak that culminated in a British title eliminator in 2016 in Bolton.
In that British title eliminator, McCarthy was knocked down and lost by points decision to Matty Askin. Three years later, he faced Richard Riakporhe and was defeated by a fourth-round knockout. However, McCarthy bounced back and secured the European title 18 months later. He subsequently lost this title in a close split decision to Chris Billam-Smith in 2021.
After losing the European title, McCarthy struggled to regain that level of performance, and faced a series of stoppage defeats, including the recent loss to Ward. Throughout the later part of his 11-year professional career, Belfast manager and promoter Mark Dunlop played a crucial role in securing numerous opportunities for McCarthy, known as ‘Mac Attack’.
Beyond boxing, McCarthy has successfully ventured into other areas. He co-created a popular podcast with fellow boxer Tyrone McKenna, explored stand-up comedy, and is a frequent presenter at awards ceremonies and events in Belfast, where he remains a well-liked personality.
