Chris Van Heerden announces retirement from boxing

After two years of inactivity, Chris Van Heerden has walked away from boxing – a sport that gave him more than he could ask for.

South Africa’s Van Heerden (28-3-1, 12 KOs) announced his retirement from the sport via his X (formally Twitter) page Wednesday afternoon.

“After much reflection, I have decided to announce my retirement,” Van Heerden. “This decision comes from a deep place of gratitude and introspection, as boxing has given me so much over the years. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to travel the world and compete on international stages.”

While acknowledging the toll exacted by boxing, Van Heerden said he was grateful to be exiting the fistic sport without serious injuries. He proceeded to thank many of the people who helped him attain success in the sport.

“Each fight taught me invaluable lessons, and I am proud to say that I spent more time on the winning side than the losing end. My journey was marked by minor battle scars, but I am grateful to walk away with no serious injuries—a testament to the discipline and respect I learned in the ring.”

“Thank you for the support, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences. I will always carry the spirit of boxing with me, and I hope to contribute to the community in new ways moving forward. With heartfelt gratitude.”

Van Heerden’s retirement comes two years after suffering a second-round TKO defeat to Conor Benn in March 2022. Prior to that loss, Van Heerden had recorded five consecutive wins between 2016 and 2019. 

In Dec. 2020, the South African slugged it out with Jaron Ennis but the fight ended in a no contest after a clash of heads left Van Heerden with a massive cut atop his forehead. Van Heerden, 37, made his US debut in February 2014 when he retired Cosme Rivera Yocupicio in four rounds. 

During his 18-year pro career, Van Heerden held the IBF International and IBO welterweight titles.

“While I acknowledge that I was good, I never claimed to be great. As I step away from this brutal yet beautiful occupation, I take with me the lessons, the friendships, and the memories that have shaped me into the man I am today. It is time for me to say farewell, respecting the sport that has given me so much while acknowledging that my journey has reached its natural conclusion.”

Van Heerden paid tribute to his late father whom he said was his motivation.

“However, what truly defined my experience was the bond that boxing created between me and my father. It was our shared passion, and it connected us in a way that I will forever cherish. Losing him left a void in my heart, and with it, the fire that once fueled my passion for the sport has dimmed.”

Bernard Neequaye is a sports journalist with a specialty in boxing coverage. He wrote a boxing column titled “From The Ringside” in his native Ghana for years. He can be reached on X (formerly Twitter) at @BernardNeequaye, LinkedIn at Bernard Neequaye and through email at [email protected].