In the quiet corners of the West Midlands, a significant chapter in boxing history closed today. Former flyweight champion Sunny Edwards announced his retirement following a one-sided defeat to rival Galal Yafai at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham. The writing was on the wall, as Edwards appeared uncharacteristically out of place in the ring. At one point, he was overheard telling his trainer, Chris Williams, “Can I be real with you? I don’t want to be in here,” after the second round.

Sunny ‘Showtime’ Edwards’ path to retirement arguably began with his first career loss to Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez last year. Although a victory over Adrien Curiel gave fans hope of a resurgence, Yafai—a 2020 Tokyo Olympics gold medalist—proved to be the deciding factor in Edwards’ decision to step away. Clips of the former champion’s final fight quickly went viral, prompting fans and prominent figures alike to reflect on his journey to the top of the flyweight division.

Sunny Edwards: A Candid Farewell

In his post-match interview, Edwards openly shared his reasons for retiring: “I don’t have the same energy I once had for the sport and the process. To be perfectly real, I put so much into the first six or seven years of my career that I just needed a break—even before this fight.”

From the opening bell, Galal Yafai dictated the pace, forcing Edwards onto the defensive. Utilizing a mix of precision jabs and body shots, the Birmingham-born fighter of Yemeni descent left Edwards struggling for answers.

While Edwards attempted a brief counterattack in the middle rounds, his efforts were insufficient to halt Yafai’s momentum. In the sixth round, referee Lee Every stepped in, ending what had become an increasingly one-sided contest.

Boxing enthusiasts took to social media to share their thoughts on Edwards’ legacy.

A chapter worth remembering

One fan acknowledged Edwards’ impact on the sport. They said, “Sunny was great for the sport, brought attention to the lighter weights, was very skilled too; sad to see him retire; great career.”

Another fan compared Edwards’ situation to that of boxing legend Kostya Tszyu, who retired after losing to Ricky Hatton in 2005. “Pretty much what Kostya did against Hatton. He was already clocked out of boxing before he stepped in the ring. Hatton doesn’t come anywhere near Kostya Tszyu if he was in [his] prime. 🔥🙌” Like Edwards, Kostya Tszyu, a menacing fighter in his prime, also had only two career losses at the time of his retirement.

While offering words of wisdom, Tyson Fury‘s uncle, trainer Peter Fury, expressed admiration for Edwards’ contributions. He said, “Been a fabulous boxer and personality in the sport. I hope you enjoy life away from it, as [there’s] a lot more in life than boxing 🥊.”

Although Sunny Edwards exits the sport at just 28, the following user agreed it was a wise decision. They said, “28 years old, so young, but fair enough; made a few million and got out healthy and still young. 👍”

The next user recalled being impressed when Edwards commenced his career. “I really rated Sunny when he first came on the scene,” they said. Unfortunately, the London-born boxer fell short of proving his claims. Perhaps Edwards may find a good opportunity as a boxing pundit, though the user felt. “But unfortunately he can’t back up the talk; he will have a great career as a pundit.”

As one star fades, another emerges to carry the sport forward. Sunny Edwards’ retirement marks the end of a memorable career, but it also signals the rise of new contenders eager to make their mark.

Meanwhile, Galal Yafai, who turns 32 on December 11, looks set to take the spotlight in the flyweight division. Talks of a potential clash with the brilliant Jesse Rodriguez seem to have surfaced. With the division heating up, Yafai will need to carefully weigh his next moves.

Do you think Sunny Edwards could have extended his career, or was this the right time to bow out?