Lewis On Why Boxers Can't Stay Retired

Lennox Lewis was tempted to come out of retirement more than once, according to a new Sky Sports News documentary exploring why fighters cannot stay away from the sport.

Lewis admitted he toyed with the idea despite countless offers to return, telling Sky Sports News he was tempted "all the time" even after hanging up the gloves as heavyweight champion. "The roar of the crowd, that's what I miss most about boxing," Lewis said in The Final Round, which airs Thursday.

Why Fight Night Pulls Fighters Back

The documentary features Johnny Nelson, who described the ring walk as "euphoric," and Dave Allen, who said nothing else can replicate the buzz of stepping through the ropes. George Groves told the programme he misses the energy from the crowd more than anything. Nelson also revealed he nearly returned nine years after retiring when Marco Huck equalled his record of 13 consecutive title defences. "Ego never leaves a fighter and that is the problem," Nelson said. "The fire and desire might disappear. But ego is always there, telling you to do it again."

Ricky Hatton, who came back in 2012 against Vyacheslav Senchenko three years after his last fight, said he has no regrets about the attempt. "We always think we've got one last go in us," Hatton told Sky Sports News. "When you get there, it's a dream come true and you want it to go on forever."

Robert Smith, general secretary of the British Boxing Board of Control, noted that most boxers hold other jobs because the sport does not pay enough outside the elite level. Sam Eggington, who announced his retirement while filming for the documentary, said he turned pro after being made redundant and needing to earn a living. The programme also features interviews with Natasha Jonas and promoter Eddie Hearn.

The Final Round airs on Sky Sports News on Thursday at 12:14 UK time.

Source: skysports.com