Michael Katsidis has not only been forced to withdraw from his upcoming fight, but it appears that he will also have to retire from boxing. Due to the medical advice he has received, the Queensland native is expected to announce he will be hanging up his gloves.
Michael Katsidis, a former world champion, has had both MRI and CAT scans performed in Sydney. The results have forced him out of his fight scheduled for February 21 in Melbourne.
One of the most exciting performers inside the ropes, Katsidis has won two different versions of the lightweight title. He had just made the switch to a new trainer, Johnny Lewis, and was determined to add to his lengthy list of world champions.
“Michael was crying over this news,” a dejected Lewis said.
“It’s heartbreaking.
“He wants to speak to his family first before announcing anything but really I’m glad the tests have stopped him fighting before something really bad happened.
“Boxing is a tough sport and it’s no good taking chances with your health. Michael is a great bloke with a wife and young daughter and he has so much in his life to be happy about even though this chapter of his boxing career is closing.”
The bad news for Katsidis comes while the horrific memory of his brother’s passing is still fresh in his mind. Stathi, was a successful jockey who died after an all-night bender back in 2010.
