DiscoverThe State of UsOlympic boxer Aidan Walsh: Why I’m delighted to quit the ring
Olympic boxer Aidan Walsh: Why I’m delighted to quit the ring

Olympic boxer Aidan Walsh: Why I’m delighted to quit the ring

Update: 2025-12-02
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When Aidan Walsh announced his retirement from boxing last month, and said he was doing so with relief, it was clear his relationship with the sport is complicated.

There were great days, not least winning a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics and representing Ireland at the highest stage with sister, and fellow boxer, Michaela.

But there were dark days too, when he struggled under the pressure of performing and suffered under the emotional jabs of some of the coaches he encountered.

He joined Tara and Declan on the pink sofa to talk about why he's delighted to quit, how the smell of boxing gloves makes him stressed and why he doesn't know exactly where his Olympic medal is.

Michaela Walsh also called into the studio to talk about her relationship with brother Aidan and how her boxing journey continues, possibly to the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this podcast, you can find information and support on the BBC Action Line.

Get in touch: thestateofus@bbc.co.uk

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Olympic boxer Aidan Walsh: Why I’m delighted to quit the ring

Olympic boxer Aidan Walsh: Why I’m delighted to quit the ring

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