Olympic champion Jade Jones has recently announced that she will be retiring from taekwondo to pursue a new career in professional boxing. The Welsh double Olympic gold medallist, who claimed victory at both the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Games, has decided to make the transition to a different sport. The 31-year-old athlete will be under the guidance of former British and Commonwealth champion Stephen Smith in Liverpool as she embarks on this new chapter in her sporting journey.
Jones expressed her gratitude for the opportunities taekwondo has provided her, stating, “Taekwondo has given me everything – an incredible journey, unforgettable memories and the honour of representing my country on the biggest stage.” She further shared her excitement for the challenges ahead in boxing, acknowledging that while she is uncertain of what to expect, she is eager to push herself beyond her limits and explore a different arena in the world of sports.
Having secured her first Olympic gold medal at the age of 19 in the -57kg category in London, Jones went on to dominate the sport by claiming another gold at the subsequent Games in Rio. In 2019, she added a world title to her impressive list of achievements, solidifying her status as one of the most successful taekwondo athletes. Despite facing controversy over a missed drugs test and subsequent investigation, Jones was cleared of any wrongdoing by UK Anti-Doping.
As Jones prepares for her boxing debut, her new trainer Smith is confident in her abilities to excel in this discipline, noting her innate fighting spirit and unwavering dedication to success. Smith, who comes from a family of boxing champions, believes that Jones’ athleticism and winning mentality will serve her well as she transitions from taekwondo to boxing. He expressed his honour in working with Jones and his certainty that she will leave a significant impact on the boxing world.
Jones’ decision to switch sports has generated considerable interest and anticipation among fans and fellow athletes alike. Her remarkable achievements in taekwondo have established her as a sports icon in Wales and beyond, and her foray into professional boxing is seen as an exciting new chapter in her illustrious career. Details regarding Jones’ upcoming boxing debut will be revealed in due course, with fans eagerly awaiting to see how she adapts to this fresh challenge.
The journey of Jade Jones from Olympic taekwondo champion to aspiring professional boxer serves as an inspiring example of determination, courage, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As she embarks on this new sporting endeavour, Jones continues to break barriers and redefine her legacy, showcasing her versatility and adaptability as an athlete. Her story resonates with aspiring sports enthusiasts and seasoned competitors alike, highlighting the importance of embracing change and embracing new opportunities for growth and success in the world of sports.