Sunderland boxer Tony Jeffries to retire

Tony Jeffries in training before he was forced to retire. Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

Britain's former Olympic bronze medallist Tony Jeffries has announced his retirement from professional boxing due to injuries to both hands.

The Sunderland light-heavyweight, who made the Olympic podium in Beijing four years ago, joined the paid ranks soon afterwards and was undefeated with nine wins and a draw, his last fight taking place in September 2011.

Over his career he developed injuries which required surgery, with a hole in a knuckle and a tear in his left hand proving insurmountable obstacles as he attempted to return to the ring.

Last month he told ITV Tyne Tees about the injury which has now ended his career:

Punching became painful for Jeffries and the 27-year-old conceded defeat after one final training session.

Jeffries has moved to Los Angeles, where he is pursuing other projects outside boxing, including opening a gym with Hollywood legend Mickey Rourke. Last month he spoke to ITV Tyne Tees about his plans for a life after boxing: