Four-weight world champion Adrien Broner issued a statement canceling his clash with Omar Figueroa due to mental issues.
“The Problem” was due to fight this weekend on Showtime. However, Broner moved to inform fans of his decision with five days remaining.
Adrien Broner cancels fight
“Sorry to all my fans, but mental health is real. I’m not about to play inside the ring,” said Broner.
“I’ve watched a lot of people die playing with their boxing career, and that is something I won’t do. Just pray for me.”
On his mindset leading into the Figueroa event, Broner added: “I love the sport of boxing too much not to give my all.
“I feel Like I came up short before because my mind wasn’t 100% there. I’ll be damned if I make that mistake again.
“I need to make some changes for the better instead of worrying about other people’s feelings and pleasing them. When In all reality I have nothing to prove to nobody.”
Possible retirement
Outlining that he may never fight again, the Cincinnati native concluded: “I’m a four-time world champion in four different weight classes.
“If I never lace up a pair of gloves again, I feel like it’s safe to say I will be inducted into the Boxing Hall Of Fame.
“So I must step back and overcome this obstacle before I put my life on the line inside the square circle again.
“I know I’m far from being finished with the sport. See you all soon.”
Media complaints
Before this weekend’s fight, Broner had complained about media duties in the build-up. However, it did seem as though he’s come back around.
“The goal right now is to beat Omar Figueroa Jr. Then I’m going to the drawing board from there,” he said in media statements.
“There are a lot of big fights that I can make. First, I have to be successful on August 20.
“You can’t look past a guy like Figueroa. He’s always been a tough competitor, and he’s a world champion.
“We’re definitely not looking past him. At this point, I’m just taking care of whatever is in front of me.
“Nothing in boxing is easy. Mentally it’s always tough, but I’m getting through it every day.
“I’m going to go in there and do what I have to do to get the victory. If I have to bang or snipe, I’ll do whatever it takes. I’m ready for the best Omar Figueroa Jr.
“We don’t know what’s going to happen until that first bell rings. I’m just going to keep preparing to the best of our ability.
“I’m a four-division world champion, so the expectations for myself are always high.
“I know that when I go into the ring, people expect great things out of me. I’m used to it and just focused on getting the victory.”
WBN would like to wish Adrien Broner all the best with his ongoing battle.
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