Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
Former WBA super-bantamweight champion Poonsawat Kratingdaenggym has been forced to bow out of boxing after being diagnosed with a blood disorder by doctors in Thailand.
The 32 year-old, who claimed the world crown at 122lbs in 2009 before making two successful defences, pulled out of another world title challenge with current belt holder Guillermo Rigondeaux with just hours remaining until fight time last month.
Rumours then spread prior to the cancelled December 15th date that Kratingdaenggym had tested positive for HIV, although specialists have now named the disease as thalassemia, an affliction that affects red blood cells and causes anemia.
"According to the doctor, it will take time to cure it," Poonsawat's manager Niwat Laosuwanwat told The Bangkok Post. "At 32, it would be tough for him to remain competitive in boxing. So it is better for him to retire now."
WBN Editor
Kratingdaenggym career over at 32
Former WBA super-bantamweight champion Poonsawat Kratingdaenggym has been forced to bow out of boxing after being diagnosed with a blood disorder by doctors in Thailand.
The 32 year-old, who claimed the world crown at 122lbs in 2009 before making two successful defences, pulled out of another world title challenge with current belt holder Guillermo Rigondeaux with just hours remaining until fight time last month.
Rumours then spread prior to the cancelled December 15th date that Kratingdaenggym had tested positive for HIV, although specialists have now named the disease as thalassemia, an affliction that affects red blood cells and causes anemia.
"According to the doctor, it will take time to cure it," Poonsawat's manager Niwat Laosuwanwat told The Bangkok Post. "At 32, it would be tough for him to remain competitive in boxing. So it is better for him to retire now."