The Argentinian, who turned 40 earlier this year, has been dogged by knee trouble in recent years and has now decided to rest following an extended period of reflection.
Martinez last fought in June 2014 when stopped in ten rounds by Miguel Cotto at Madison Square Garden, just his third defeat in a 56-fight career that produced four world titles over a seventeen-year period.
‘Maravilla’ first became a champion back in 2003 when travelling to the UK and defeating Richard Williams for the IBO super-welterweight title, although was a late bloomer when it came to breaking into world class.
A draw with Kermit Cinton as Martinez approached his 34th birthday led to a fight with Paul Williams, and despite losing a decision, the South American had announced himself in the elite.
Martinez followed the Williams loss up with a shock win over Kelly Pavlik for the unified middleweight crown and would demolish Williams with a second round knockout that was heard around the world in his first defense.
A string of victories over the likes of Darren Barker, Matthew Macklin, Martin Murray and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr kept Martinez recognised at a pound for pound star until he finally ran into Cotto and the injuries became too much.
The southpaw will forever be remembered for that hell of a left hand which laid out Williams at the Boardwalk Hall in December 2009 and WBN would like to wish Martinez well as he prepares for a life outside the ring.
