Eric Donovan has announced his retirement from boxing after 30 years in the sport.
The Kildare native hangs up his gloves merely weeks after winning the EU European Featherweight title in Belfast.
The 37-year-old was a standout at amateur level and won a slew of National titles before making his professional debut in 2016.
The esteemed pundit and 'Ultimate Hell-week' star, who recently welcomed a new baby into the world, ends his career with a stellar record of 14 wins and just 2 defeats.
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Announcing the news on Instagram, Donovan said, "After a lot of consideration and discussion with my family and team, I've decided to hang up the gloves."
"Some of the best experiences and memories of my life have come from boxing. Now after 30 years in the game, I am finally content with my achievements inside the ring.
"Thanks to St. Michael's Boxing Club Athy and all the coaches & boxers who represented the club and helped me out over the years, especially Dom O'Rourke, who was a great coach/mentor and never gave up on me.
"My professional career was one of redemption, with the EU European Title being my crowning moment and a night I'll never forget.
"So many people helped me along the way, coaches, cut-men, sparring partners, professional support personnel, sponsors and all my supporters. Whether it was for one fight or for several, I will be forever grateful for your support and could not have done it without your help.
"I will personally thank each and every one of you over the next couple of days/weeks, but a special mention goes to Mark Dunlop, Packie Collins, Kenneth Egan and Leonard Gunning.
"They put in the hard yards with me and I am very thankful for their time and contribution over my professional career.
"My wife, Laura and kids, Jack, Troy & Saoirse are my motivation and inspiration. My wife has been an absolute source of strength, who kept me going during difficult times when I felt like giving up. I'm looking forward to spending more quality time with them.
"The higher you build your barriers, the taller I become. Something inside so strong
"Looking forward to the next chapters.
"Lilywhite Lightning."
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