ODIHAM professional boxer Matt Goddard has been forced to retire from the sport due to an eye injury.

The 24-year-old light welterweight admitted he had no choice as he was unable to pass the medical to carry on his career.

Goddard said: “It has been incredibly disappointing, but the decision was taken out of my hands.

“It has been a huge change in my life. I have been boxing since I was 12 and training three times a day, six days a week.”

The Odiham fighter enjoyed a perfect professional record of seven wins out of seven.

It began with a points victory over Pavels Senkovs in London in 2012 and ended with another points success over Arek Malek at the Guildhall in Southampton last year.

He also recorded first round knock-outs over Marc Callaghan and Julius Rasael in his magnificent seven wins.

Looking back on his career, Goddard said: “I think the highlight for me was my last win as it was a six round fight. I really felt I had reached the professional ranks as amateur fights are only over three rounds.”

Even though the Odiham fighter has been forced out of the ring, he is not about to turn his back on the sport he loves and said: “Boxing is in my blood so I am now going to look to get into training.

“I am looking to get professional trainer’s license and hopefully start at Basingstoke. It would be nice to help the boys out down there.”

Goddard added: “I want to thank everybody who supported my boxing, came to watch me, followed my progress or even took an interest.

“I have to thank my parents for enabling me to follow my dreams. More so than anybody else, I need to thank Trevor Francis for teaching me everything I know and being, in my opinion, one of this country’s best coaches, and a great life coach who kept me on a positive and dedicated path.”

At present, Goddard will continue with his personal training and fitness classes at his gym in Odiham.

Anyone interested can contact him on 07803 837129, or via Facebook at Matt Goddard Fitness.