Bobby hasn't had the luxury of the choice as I understand it, in the sense that he discovered his faith only a year or so ago , when he was already 9 years into his professional career. Indeed as recently as last November he commented to me following a hearing with the British boxing board of control that he planned to fight on despite the natural contradiction with his faith for two more fights.
He soothed himself by hoping theat his god would understand his need to provide for his family and to fulfil his ambitions within the ring. However, it would seem that morale dilema swung back and he elected to retire rather than pursue those potentially lucrative opportunties.
Bobby's only continued involvement with the sport will be as a media commentator, which is a shame because he has so much to offer the sport but his decision has been accepted and respected within the sport.
I do not wish to denegrate anybody's right to voice their opinion, nor do I wish to insult the faith to which all the contributors adhere as I have very little understanding of it - nor do I feel the need to investigate as I have a closely held faith myself - and I prefer not to debate about topics in which I have little understanding.
I'm sure Bobby will be something of an attraction to your group in the future and I'm sure he will be more favourably welcomed now he has retired from the ring, I just hope the difficulty the timing of the decision caused is recognised by contributors and that his attempts to balance the two conflicting interests are not too harshly viewed either. Bobby is a good, honest, generous man who deserves credit for his strength of will.
Regards
DP