Iconic trainer and pundit Teddy Atlas, who knows the dangers of his sport better than most, has urged one of boxing’s pound-for-pound stars to hang up his gloves.
Atlas, along with former Mike Tyson trainer Kevin Rooney, plied his trade under the tutelage of Cus D’Amato at the Catskill Boxing Club, New York.
During that time, Atlas would have only benefited from the wisdom of D’Amato, which he then applied to his work in the corner of former world heavyweight champion Michael Moorer.
Because of that, the ex-trainer is now considered a highly respected voice in the industry, as well as an expert on matters concerning fighter safety.
It should come as a point of genuine interest, then, that Atlas has encouraged heavyweight king Oleksandr Usyk to put his exit plan into action, as he told Grosvenor Casinos that he would like to see Usyk sail off into the sunset.
“Usyk should retire… I’ve seen too many sad endings. I’ve seen the Muhammad Ali’s. I’ve seen other guys that get less fanfare, but it’s no less terrible to witness.
“I want to see a happy ending to this great movie. This Usyk movie has inspired so many people in so many ways outside of boxing, so that’s what I want.
“I know I’m not going to get it. I know that. I’m not saying he has to do it. I’m not saying he shouldn’t continue.
“He’s still in his prime in many ways. I understand all that. I just understand that my business is one of the most unforgiving businesses in the world.”
Usyk has not fought since July, back when he produced a masterful performance to halt Daniel Dubois in the fifth round.
Prior to that, the Ukrainian had become a two-division undisputed champion after outpointing Tyson Fury, and then successfully defending his titles in their rematch, last year.
But while it may appear that the 38-year-old is showing few signs of deterioration, there is always a danger that Father Time could rear its ugly head at any moment.
