Kevin Mitchell, arguably one of Britian’s best Lightweight ‘Nearly-Men’ (if that’s a thing) has decided to hang his gloves up for good, calling it a day after a colorful, action-packed career. And who could argue with the Londoner’s decision? Mitchell, 31, who was recently mauled by savage puncher Ismael Barroso back in December, had several cracks at capturing world honors but never realized that dream.
Whether it was due to being outclassed or suffering from plain old back luck, Mitchell earned his many followers by producing plenty of thrilling encounters whenever he climbed through the ropes.
Though handily beaten by Michael Katsidis and Ricky Burns, Mitchell put in a career-defining – and heartbreaking – showing against formidable WBC champ Jorge Linares last May. Mitchell scored a hard knockdown in the 5th and appeared to be ahead on the cards until Linares pounded an ugly eye injury in the 10th en route to a stoppage.
World titles may have proved ever-elusive for Mitchell, but the Londoner managed to defy the odds in some memorable performances over the years. Mitchell, who made his pro debut back in 2003, won a convincing Unanimous Decision over Amir Khan-conqueror Breidis Prescott, and knocked out unbeaten bangers John Murray and Ghislain Maduma.
Mitchell, who leaves the sport with 39 wins, 29 knockouts and 4 defeats to his name, will be remembered fondly here at Boxing Base for his refined boxing, underrated power and gritty performances. We wish him all the best in his coaching aspirations and future endeavors.
What are your best memories of Kevin Mitchell, and how will he be remembered among Britain’s greatest Lightweight contenders?
