Dawson: inspiring Calzaghe left at top like Marciano
The American, who is training to defend his IBF 175lbs title in a rematch against Antonio Tarver in Las Vegas on March 14, had been mooted as a possible future opponent for Calzaghe had he held retirement at bay.
Dawson said: “I applaud Joe’s decision. It’s obvious he and his family gave it a lot of thought. Timing is everything and to leave centre stage at his peak is rare and comparable to the retirement of Rocky Marciano.
“Joe left on his own terms. What could be better? He held the super-middleweight championship longer than anyone, successfully defended it a record 21 times, unified the titles, and then moved up to light heavyweight beating two future Hall of Famers.
“He has been a man for all seasons and will be an inspiration to me as I look to meet and beat his records. On behalf of all your boxing fans I say, ‘Thank you, Joe.’ And now I am ready to succeed Joe as the new king.”
Other top fighters also queued up to paid tribute to Calzaghe today with Ricky Hatton saying: “To hold the title for as long as he did is an absolutely phenomenal achievement.
“He has fought everyone that’s been put in front of him. Anybody who tries to put Joe Calzaghe’s record down doesn’t know what they are talking about as far as I’m concerned.”
Enzo Calzaghe believes son Joe has made the right decision to call time on his boxing career. Enzo trained the 36-year-old Welshman throughout his career at the Newbridge boxing club, right up to his final fight, when he outpointed Roy Jones Jnr in his last fight in November.
Enzo said: “The final decision I’m really pleased about.
“He’s had a great innings, what a career.
“It’s common sense really. There’s no way physically he can’t do it. His physical attributes are still spot on but the principal consideration is motivation.
“It’s nothing about money, it’s about getting up in morning.
“Joe has never ever had a break from the age of 12 or 13; he’s always been professional.”
