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Jake Michaels, ESPN Senior Writer
PERTH, Australia — Australian boxer Andrew Moloney says he is retiring from the sport following Sunday’s controversial split decision loss to Pedro Guevara, a fight he is adamant should have gone his way.
Moloney, 33, was in control of the early rounds of the pair’s interim junior bantamweight title bout at RAC Arena in Perth — as part of the Vasiliy Lomachenko-George Kambosos undercard — but the Mexican began to turn the tide from the fifth round onwards, showcasing his stamina and laying a flurry of attacks on Moloney’s body.
Two judges scored the fight 115-113 in favor of Guevara, while the other believed Moloney had done enough, scoring it 116-113 for the Australian.
“I’m done with this sport,” said Moloney in the ring immediately following the fight.
“That’s the last you’ll see of me. I want to thank my sponsors. I’m retired, I’m out. I love you all, but sorry, f— that.
“I felt in total control. I did what I had to do in there tonight to get the win. I don’t want to make excuses, but I went into this fight with a torn biceps, so I couldn’t throw the left hook unless I needed to. I didn’t feel like I needed to throw it because I was in total control.”
Speaking to ESPN post-fight, Moloney doubled down on his desire to walk away from the sport.
“Honestly, I should say I’m shocked, but I’ve been here before in this sport. It’s corrupt as anything,” Moloney told ESPN.
“I thought I won 10 rounds to two. I should have been walking home with that belt. I’ve given my life to this sport for 20 years. That’s twice they’ve ripped me off for a world title.
“I’m done with this sport because it’s corrupt and I can’t do anything more than I already am, so I’m out.”
Moments before Moloney announced his retirement, Guevara confirmed he had “no problem” giving the Australian a rematch.
Moloney is a former WBA junior bantamweight titlist. He has also represented Australia at two Commonwealth Games, winning gold in 2014