Nieky Holzken, a super middleweight boxer who took part in the World Boxing Super Series tournament, has retired from combat sports in general after suffering his second defeat within the Sweet Science.
Holzken was also a champion kickboxer – his main sport – who competed for more than 20 years, primarily in the K-1, Glory and One Championship promotions. His kickboxing record depends on the source, but the number of wins is always in the 90s and losses in the teens. Wikipedia has Holzken as 95-18 (48 KOs).
Under the Queensberry Rules, Holzken was 15-2 (11 KOs). He debuted in 2013, and in 2018 he replaced an ill Juergen Braehmer in the semifinals of the WBSS. Holzken unsuccessfully challenged Callum Smith, losing a wide unanimous decision.
After one more boxing match in 2018, Holzken returned fully to kickboxing until 2025, when he returned to the boxing ring again. Holzken had two bouts in his hometown of Helmond in The Netherlands, nearly shutting out the 14-4-1 Edison Demaj last July and then dropping a unanimous decision to the 20-2 Besir Ay this past Saturday.
At 42 years old, and with this defeat, Holzken decided it was time to retire.
“After a lot of reflection, I’ve decided to step away from my active career,” Holzken posted on social media. “7x World Champion. 150+ fights. All around the world. Proud of the journey. Grateful for everyone who stood by me. This chapter ends — a new one begins.”
David Greisman, who has covered boxing since 2004, is on Twitter @FightingWords2. David’s book, “Fighting Words: The Heart and Heartbreak of Boxing,” is available on Amazon.
