Curtis Woodhouse threatens to quit boxing after controversial defeat

CURTIS Woodhouse looks like he may have had his last fight as a professional boxer after losing his English light-welterweight title in highly controversial circumstances.

Making the first defence of his English title against Shayne Singleton, Woodhouse lost on points following a split decision at the Bowler's Arena in Manchester, going down to his fifth loss in 22 pro contests.

Despite having a point deducted in the 10th round for hitting on the break, the 96-94, 96-95, 94-96 verdict in favour of hometown boxer Singleton shocked the majority of the crowd and prompted a flurry of sympathy on social media sites for the Beverley-born boxer.

The announcement of the decision was followed by a look of disbelief and shock from Woodhouse and his promoter Dave Coldwell.

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Woodhouse was unavailable to speak to the Mail over the weekend, but it now seems following his comments on Twitter the former footballer is adamant he is going to hang up his gloves.

In the aftermath of his defeat Woodhouse went on Twitter to say: "I give my heart and soul to this sport and tonight the sport ripped my heart out."

Having had time to digest the result, Woodhouse added over the weekend: "I'd like to thank everybody for the support last night and over the last six years, I've been part of a great sport, thank-you.

"Thanks to the boxing world for showing me love, loved your sport my whole life and I hope I've given you some good nights

"Last but not least thanks to my family who have sacrificed probably more than me to allow me to scratch my itch! I love you all tons.

"Even though I never reached my goal of British champion I gave it my all, no regrets, adios."

Woodhouse was inundated with responses from across the boxing community, with even the likes of boxing superstar Kell Brook and the sport's biggest promoter in Britain in Eddie Hearn voicing their support for Woodhouse.

The frustration for the Woodhouse camp lies in a perfectly executed contest, with the defending champion controlling the contest from the minute he found his rhythm by the third round.

Singleton counter-punched well and had some success with his rangy jab, but the Lancashire boxer did nothing to suggest he'd edged the decision on two of the three cards.

The longer the fight went on, Woodhouse's conditioning told, with his superior fitness and work rate putting him in the driving seat as he picked Singleton apart in the latter rounds.

The judges disagreed and now Woodhouse has suggested it could be all over.

With many calling for a re-match against Singleton, a fight that can be made, the question remains whether a shot at redemption will prompt Woodhouse to come back once again.