Anthony Ogogo has today announced his retirement from boxing after seven eye operations in two and a half years.

In a statement, the 30-year-old said “accepting the end gracefully is part of being a professional athlete. Calling an end to dreams that are left unfulfilled is the hardest part.

“Sadly, after 7 operations on my eyes in 2 and a half years, I am forced to admit that they are too damaged for me to safely return to the boxing ring.

“With a heavy heart, I have to retire from professional boxing with my dreams unfulfilled.”

Ogogo was last seen in defeat to Craig Cunningham in October 2016, pulled out of the contest due to blurred vision that was later confirmed to be a fractured eye socket

“Today marks the end of my boxing journey,” he said.

“It’s been one hell of a ride: from walking into the boxing gym as a skinny, gap toothed 12 year old, to travelling the world and meeting some remarkable people.

“I’m grateful that I’ve been blessed enough to do what I’ve loved to do for the last 18 years.”