Friday 22 July 2016 17:38, UK
After almost 40 years as one of the most recognised voices in boxing, Sky Sports commentator and former WBC lightweight world champion Jim Watt has decided to retire.
Watt built up an impressive record as one of Scotland's most successful boxers before he made the move into broadcasting.
After turning professional in 1968, the Glasgow native became British lightweight champion in 1972 and 1975 before winning the WBC lightweight title in 1979. Watt went on to win 38 of his 46 fights, 27 by knockout, and subsequently received an MBE for his services to sport.
Jim was taken on as a commentator by ITV whilst still a professional boxer, and continued working for the channel after he retired in 1981 before moving to Sky Sports in 1996.
As a Sky Sports commentator, Jim enthralled viewers as he described the feats of superstars including Floyd Mayweather, Mike Tyson and Manny Pacquiao, as well as the successes of home-grown legends like Prince Naseem Hamed, Ricky Hatton and new heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua.
Speaking about his decision to retire, Watt said: "I've had the best job in the world and I've thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it, but now is the right time for me to retire.
"I have so many great memories. Being at Wembley with 80,000 fans for the rematch between Carl Froch and George Groves was special. Watching Ricky Hatton defeat Kostya Tszyu in front of his home crowd in Manchester is another night I'll never forget. It's always nice when an underdog turns the tables and Ricky did that in dramatic fashion.
"I'm looking forward to watching many more great nights of boxing on Sky Sports, but now as a viewer!"
Watching Ricky Hatton defeat Kostya Tszyu in front of his home crowd in Manchester is another night I'll never forget.
Adam Smith, Head of Boxing at Sky Sports, said: "His achievements as a professional boxer already made him a legend but 40 years ago Jim helped pioneer a new co-commentator role which saw a world-class athlete also providing incredible analysis.
"It's his vast experience as a fighter and champion that made him an incredible commentator as well. I feel hugely privileged to have joined Jim for so many commentaries - he taught me so much. His voice, analysis and consummate professionalism have helped light up so many of boxing's most memorable moments.
His voice, analysis and consummate professionalism have helped light up so many of boxing's most memorable moments.
"It's been an honour to work with him and everyone on the boxing team at Sky Sports joins me in wishing him all the very best for his retirement."
Barney Francis, Managing Director of Sky Sports, said: "Like so many of us I have enjoyed listening to Jim provide commentary and analysis to some of boxing's biggest moments over the last 30 years.
"His insight has taken viewers into the ring, informing and entertaining boxing fans. We thank him for everything he has done and wish him well for his retirement."
