By Mark Vester

Danny Green (25-3, 22KOs), the current WBA light heavyweight champion, confirmed the recent rumors of his retirement. Green, 35, told reporters that he plans to retire as soon as possible to protect his health and spend more time with his family. He will not be making a mandatory defense of his title against Argentina's Hugo Garay on April 27.

"I am getting out on my terms, with my dignity and respect intact," Green told AAP. "I have a decision of an intelligent man - looking to 25 years in the future. There was talk of me retiring after the Anthony Mundine fight. I knew I had more to offer and I am very glad I trusted my instincts."

Green's decision brings an end to any possible talks of a lucrative rematch with Australian rival Mundine. Close to 30,000 fans packed the Aussie Stadium in Sydney to watch Green lose a decision to Mundine in May of 2006.

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