Pody McCrory retires at 38 after world title journey from West Belfast
West Belfast boxer Padraig McCrory has retired at 38 after 23 fights, with plans to develop his promotions business and spend time with his family.
West Belfast boxer Padraig ‘Pody’ McCrory has announced his retirement at 38 after a nine-year, 23-fight professional career that brought him an IBO light-heavyweight world title. Speaking to The Irish News, he said he would devote more time to his wife Natasha and their four children while building his boxing promotions and management business.
McCrory turned professional at 29, with expectations that he might reach British title level. He went further, claiming the WBC International super-middleweight title and then beating Leon Bunn in Frankfurt to become IBO world champion.
That victory capped five successive knockout wins across 2021 and 2022. He later topped the bill against Steed Woodall at Falls Park, a fight he regards as a career highlight.
Support across Belfast
McCrory also overcame a serious speech impediment. He recalled how his late teacher Peter Murray had told him he was proud of what he had achieved after difficulties at school and in his upbringing.
The backing he attracted extended beyond West Belfast. McCrory said four supporters from East Belfast travelled to Germany to watch him, and described Carl Frampton’s ability to bring people together as an inspiration.
“I’m so proud of the support I got, it was amazing and I think I was on the fringes of becoming a real household name,” McCrory told The Irish News.
His opportunity against Edgar Berlanga in a super-middleweight world title eliminator came when he was 36. After losing in Florida, McCrory fought four more times, losing twice.
Life beyond fighting
Retirement brings financial questions as well as a change of identity. McCrory worked part-time throughout his career, including as a doorman and personal trainer at GymCo, and said his earnings had not left him financially secure.
“I had some good paydays but I’m not financially secure,” McCrory said.
He now plans to develop Hammer Boxing Promotions and his management work. His fighters include Teo Alin, JoJo McArdle, Ella McDonald, Owen O’Neill and Lex Weston.
He also hopes to play again for Cardinal O’Donnell’s GAC and St James’s Swifts.
“I want to see Belfast boxing grow and I also see it as a vehicle to go on and potentially make a living out of boxing,” McCrory said.
Source: The Irish News
