He could have retired on top after winning the super series, didn't need to take all that punishment against Opetaia, on the other hand maybe the money on offer was too good to say no. I wish him all the best in retirement though, he was an absolute warrior, one of the greatest cruiserweights.
He had a great career and overall was an elite boxer who had it all. Big heart, heavy hands, excellent skills, great chin and work ethic. No wonder he was never stopped or knocked down in his career, and held his own in any of his fights. Briedis was the toughest test for Usyk and Opetaia (in both fights) and gave them all they could handle, and vs Opetaia I and especially II he was already clearly past his prime. Great career at CW and it would've been interesting what he could've achieved at HW had Briedis stayed there after he KO'd Charr cold with single punch. Great career, Mairis!
Very unlucky guy. With his skills, he should be ranked higher. He said that some local people were against him during Usyk fight, just because of the media and their narratives. Boxing mafia was very cruel to him.
He's not American?!?!?. In that case I'll drop him off the top 3 cruisers in history list. He is now 99th on my list. Thanks for pointing that out.
Anyone who delivers multiple big boxing nights for our entertainment is going to be missed especially when there aren’t many lying around in wait to take his place, all the best to him.