Veteran UK Star Martin Kirby Announces Retirement

Martin Kirby, a veteran star of numerous UK promotions, as well as Dragon Gate in Japan, announced Sunday that he was retiring from the ring following a 14 year career.

Wrote Kirby on Twitter, "I first began wrestling 14 years ago & in that time I've surpassed any expectations I ever had. The opportunities I've been fortunate to have received allowed me to wrestle in every major city, main event shows, meet & wrestle childhood heroes, have a WWE Try Out & even complete 2 tours in Japan with Dragon Gate.

"However, the time has now come to hang up my pink and black trunks for the final time. I'm proud of all the friends I've made, things I've accomplished & fans I've entertained over the years. Thank you."

During his career, which began in June of 2006, Kirby gained recognition for his versatility, proving equally adept as both a silly and charming comedic performer, as well as a masterful all-around talent that could hang with top-level wrestlers of any style.

Among the highlights of his career, Kirby was known for his Project Ego partnership with the late Kris Travis, which yielded gold in promotions like IPW: UK, 3 Count Wrestling, and Real Deal Wrestling. He also won singles gold for Real Deal and 3 Count, as well as Garage Pro Wrestling and Defiant. The master of the Zoidberg Elbow is also known for his extensive collection of matches with El Ligero.

Kirby's last match took place on March 1, in an eight-man tag for Dragon Gate in Osaka.