Conlan retires
Michael Conlan announced his retirement after a split-decision loss to Kevin Walsh, closing out a pro record of 20-4 — news that lit up fight feeds this weekend (x.com). The announcement came immediately after the decision and has already become a talking point among boxing circles online (x.com).
The bout was staged at the SSE Arena in Belfast on March 20, 2026. (the42.ie) Two judges scored the 10-round contest 96-94 for Kevin Walsh while the third had it 97-93 for Conlan; the fight was contested for the WBC International featherweight title. (boxing247.com) Walsh improved to an unblemished 20-0 with the win and is credited with 10 career knockouts after the Belfast victory. (boxing247.com) Conlan, 34, was making his first return to the SSE Arena since his December 2024 loss to Jordan Gill. (boxing-social.com) He spoke in his dressing room after the fight flanked by his partner Shona and their two children, according to local reporting. (the42.ie) Multiple outlets described the verdict as controversial or “debatable,” and observers noted the SSE Arena crowd left in near silence after the announcement. (skysports.com) Conlan leaves the ring having twice challenged for world honours and with a decorated amateur résumé that includes a 2015 world amateur title and an Olympic bronze from London 2012. (boxingnewsonline.net)
