Fans were stunned when Kash Farooq, a top boxer, was forced to retire at 26 because of 'unforeseen circumstances.

BANTAMWEIGHT boxer Kash Faiq shocked fans by abruptly retiring from the sport at only 26 years old.

After 17 professional bouts that included 16 wins, he decided to hang up his gloves because of 'unforeseen circumstances'. He was also the British bantamweight champion, and WBC international champion.

The Pakistani-born Scottish pro was last seen in action on August 20, 2021. He scored a points win over Luis Gerardo Castillo in Matchroom's Fight Camp' series.

In a eagerly awaited rematch, he was set to take on fellow Scotsman Lee McGregor. This is after their controversial first meeting in 2019.

However, a statement was released by St Andrew's Sporting Club today: "It will be a shock, but due to unforeseeable circumstances we regret to announce Kash Farooq's retirement from professional boxing."

Farooq was also a part of Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing promotion firm since 2019.

A spokesperson for the company said: "Our thoughts and best wishes are with Kash Farooq, who unfortunately had to retire dueto unforeseen circumstances.

"No doubt, he was destined to win World honours." He was a brilliant fighter and a top man.

Farooq will continue in the sport but will assume the role of Head of Talent for St Andrew's Sporting Club.

According to the club's statement, "Kash Farooq was an integral part of St Andrew's Sporting Club's history and we will continue that tradition. We are thrilled to announce that he will join our background team as our Head of Talent."

"He is a valuable source of experience and skill that he is willing to share with our stable. We are thrilled to start this new chapter together, even though 'The Untouchable Kash Faooq' has retired as a boxer.

"We also want to take this opportunity and thank the British Boxing Board of Control for their support in the matter.

"Their procedures provide a safety net that protects against potential harm. The health and safety of boxers is paramount."

McGregor, a Scottish rival, was Farooq’s only loss in his career.

The pair were preparing for an all-Scottish rematch, which was highly anticipated.

McGregor won the thrilling first bout by a split decision. McGregor's reaction to Farooq's unexpected retirement was also hotly debated.

McGregor wrote an emotional Facebook post: "I'm devastated to learn that @kashfarooq1 had to retire from boxing."

"We both helped one another so much, from sparring as amateurs to being part in one of Scotland's greatest fights between 2 Scottish fighters.

"We were about to make a life-changing decision ahead of the highly anticipated rematch. It's heartbreaking that we won’t be able to enjoy that special night that we all longed for.

"My thoughts and prayers go out to @kashfarooq1's family. If there's anything I could do in the future, I'll be there in my heartbeat."

"It was an honor to share the ring avec you champ. I wish you nothing but best."