The double Olympic Taekwondo champion, Jade Jones, has left sport to pursue a career as a professional boxer.
The 31 -year -old made the shock decision following his defeat in the first round in Paris 2024, to which the construction was marred by the controversy after missing a drug test but escaped the ban on medical reasons.
“Taekwondo gave me everything – an incredible journey, unforgettable memories and the honor of representing my country on the biggest scene,” said Jones.
“But I’m now ready for a new challenge. Boxing has always fascinated me and I am delighted to test myself in a completely different arena.
“I know it will not be easy and, if I am honest, I don’t really know what to expect, but I flourish by pushing myself beyond my limits and I am excited by the future trip.”
Jones took glory in London 2012 when she won the first Olympic gold medal from Taekwondo from Great Britain at only 19, before defending her title from -57 kg to Rio 2016.
The double Olympic Taekwondo champion, Jade Jones, has left sport to become a boxer
Jones will be formed by Stephen Smith, with his first fight which should be announced soon
Jones turned to glory by winning gold in London 2012, before repeating the feat in Rio 2016
The Welsh woman then won her first world title in 2019, but crashed in the first round in Tokyo 2020, before undergoing another early outing in Paris.
This defeat last summer turned out to be her last Taekwondo competition as she exchanges the ring in the ring, with her first boxing fight which should be announced soon.
Jones will be formed by Stephen Smith, who won gold at the Commonwealth Games 2006 and fought twice for a world featherweight title in 2016.
The Liverpudlian – whose brothers Liam, Callum and Paul are all winning boxers – said: “I have no doubt that she has what it takes to have a serious impact in boxing.
“She is a born fighter. She has proven that many and many times in Taekwondo.
“His athletics, his dedication and his winning mentality are unparalleled. It is an honor to work with her.