TOMMY McCarthy has hung up the gloves after a career that spanned 23 years, from amateur to professional. The 34-year-old lost a make-or-break Belfast battle with Steven Ward on 1 March in the SSE Arena. Tommy was stopped in round six and has now opted to bow out.
McCarthy posted on Instagram: “After 23 years in the game I’m officially retiring from boxing. I am proud of what I achieved in the sport although I’m disappointed that I never fulfilled my potential of being a world champion.
“I put my name in the history books as an amateur by being the first black athlete from here to win a medal at the commonwealth games. Then again as a professional by becoming the 1st Black Irish European Champion.
“The game has been good to me. It took me around the globe, met some great friends and put a bitta money in my pocket.”
The Lenadoon warrior exits with a record of 21-7 (10 KOs). Following a fruitful amateur career and brief spell in the World Series of Boxing, Tommy turned pro with the late Pat Magee, wracking up a run of wins that led to a 2016 British title eliminator in Bolton.
Tommy was dropped and outpointed by the experienced Matty Askin. Three years passed before his next chance as Richard Riakporhe knocked him out in round four. McCarthy rebounded to win a European title 18 months later. He lost that belt in a split decision cracker to Chris Billam-Smith in 2021.
Tommy could not recapture that EBU form, and his step-ups became regular stoppage losses, culminating in the Ward defeat last weekend. Belfast manager/promoter Mark Dunlop guided ‘Mac Attack’ to numerous opportunities towards the back end of his 11-year pro career.
Away from the ropes, Tommy set up a successful podcast with fellow fighter Tyrone McKenna, indulged in some stand-up comedy and is seen presenting awards or hosting events around Belfast where he remains a popular figure.
