“I just can’t take the punishment” - Liam Harrison says he won’t deny Father Time as he officially ends his legendary career

Liam Harrison has called it a career.

The British Muay Thai and kickboxing legend officially announced his retirement following his loss to Thai icon Seksan at ONE 168: Denver this past weekend at Ball Arena.

It was a bittersweet moment for Harrison as he made his final walk as a professional fighter, a life he's had to let go of due to years of punishment and glory.

In a backstage interview with ONE Championship, Harrison said his body doesn't have the same fortitude it once had despite him being mentally prepared to take on allcomers.

Liam Harrison said:

"I'm pretty sure you all just saw me lay my gloves down then. It's a shame, but my body just can't take the shots that I could in my prime. It's as simple as that, really. I'm 38 years old, I'm 39 [in three weeks] and I just can't take the punishment that I could once take."

He added:

"And to fight in ONE Championship, against these elite-level killers, you need to be able to take the punishment. Two years out of the ring, horrible injury, and Father Time catching up on me. I thank [ONE Championship], Chatri [Sityodtong], and all the ONE guys for everything they've done for me and for giving me the stage to perform at the backend of my career. Thank you."

Harrison and Seksan put on an instant classic once they touched gloves inside the circle, but it was the last time that 'Hitman' had the opportunity to do so.

Despite his best efforts to fight back from two knockdowns, Harrison got lit up in the second round and Seksan put him away with a nasty overhand 1:49 into the frame.

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Liam Harrison "gutted" to leave the sport after ONE 168: Denver

Liam Harrison, undoubtedly, is one of the greatest Muay Thai artists of all time.

The British icon collected eight world titles in Muay Thai and kickboxing, ending his career with 90 professional wins.

Although he's left such an indelible mark on the sport, 'Hitman' admits that he's disappointed to retire knowing he wasn't the same fighter as before.

He said during the post-event press conference:

"The level of competition here is unbelievable, it’s the best of the best. And it’s just a shame that Father Time is catching up with me a little bit. Like I said I’m gutted, but what am I meant to do? There’s only so much your body can go through."