Carl Frampton retired from boxing on Saturday after Ireland ‘s attempt to become the first three weightlifting world champions failed after a heavy defeat to Jamel Herring.

The Belfast-born fighter said before his World Cup that he would call it a day if he lost – he kept his word after throwing a corner on a towel in the sixth round of the WBO Super Featherweight competition in Dubai.

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Carl Frampton announced his retirement from the ring after the fight

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Jamel Herring built a magnificent display

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Herring caught Frampton with some deadly uppercuts

Frampton was twice overthrown by the Americans – who remained in command throughout the battle.

The 34-year-old returned to his feet after the second of the sixth-round knockouts and scored eight runs.

He tried to stay, but missed the draw and finished the sixth round with a minute and 40 seconds left.

“I said before I retired that if I lost this fight, that’s what I’m going to do,” he said in the visually pleasing Frampton ring.

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The American WBO defended the featherweight belt remarkably

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After the second knockout, Frampton returned to his feet but threw his corner towel

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Frampton has vowed to retire if he loses to Herring

“I want to dedicate my life to my family now. Boxing is good for me and it’s bad for me.

“The last years with these boys [trainers Jamie Moore and Nigel Travis], But the best of my career over the last few years with these boys.

“I want to come home with my beautiful wife and kids, that’s all.”

In the fight itself, Frampton told Channel 5, “I beat the best man. It was very difficult for me to get into him.

“He shoots accurately from a distance, and had a great game plan. Zero excuses. “