Byrd Stopped by George in 9
Saturday May 17, 2008
Chris Byrd (40-5-1) looked great at the weigh-in after dropping 40 pounds and moving down to light heavyweight. Unfortunately, that look did not translate into good results in the ring as the former heavyweight champ was stopped in nine rounds by Shaun George (17-2-2). Byrd was dropped in round one and staggered in round two as he was unable to avoid the straight rights coming from George. After two more knockdowns in the ninth, referee Jay Nady mercifully called a halt to the action at the 2:45 mark. Byrd landed awkwardly on the first knockdown in the ninth and appeared to injure his left shoulder. George looked sharp throughout and was well on his way to a decision victory as he was leading 79-72 on all three cards at the time of the stoppage.
It's tough to tell whether Byrd's awful performance was a result of being drained after losing all that weight or whether - at 37 and after years of absorbing punishment from significantly larger men - Byrd is a shot fighter. Either way, it was sad to watch as the former champ had nothing left to offer but heart and could be seen apologizing to his corner and family after the bout. Byrd has had a very good career - especially considering he was campaigning above his natural weight despite possessing almost zero punching power - but it was obvious to everyone watching that it's time for him to hang up the gloves. Byrd did not speak to reporters after the fight, but he's a smart guy ... hopefully he comes to the same conclusion.
Comments
I agree, its time for Byrd to hang-up the gloves. Frankly, his style never made for very good matches and it seems his heavier weight simply made it easier for him to take punishment. He was a good representative for boxing and hopefully he can contribute in some other ways like Oscar has been.
I think that Chris Byrd was an average fighter in an average division when up at heavyweight. To move down was bad press for boxing and too much at his age. Retirement is a big yes !
Nice but you should have tryed to keep that weight on you but it is a good thing that yu lost weight just it is not a good thing to loose weight in boxing where it can hurt you but still that is impresive good job you are an inspertoin to me
Too many fighters stay too long and end up losing very badly. But it is that determination to give their all that makes fighters who they are, very special people. Chris Byrd was never at a loss for determination and dedication to the sport. He gave it his all but hung around too long. His knowledge of the sport is great, and it might be that he can find a home as a manager and trainer. Whatever he does, we should all wish him and his family well, and he is fortunate that he will leave without major physical or mental damage.