A Norfolk boxer has decided to step away from the ring after battling physical and mental hurdles.

Roni Dean has won all five of her professional outings since her debut in April 2023, under the guidance of Norwich trainer Graham Everett.

The 29-year-old, a member of the Thetford boxing family dynasty, was due to fight at the 02 on March 22.

But in a social media post, Dean said she was putting her pro career on hold.

“After a tough couple of days being honest with myself and unpicking my thoughts, I’ve decided to take a step back from professional boxing,” she said.

“The truth is, I have been struggling physically with injuries but I’ve also been struggling mentally and been proper low.

“I think my sub-conscious brain knew this wasn’t the path for me anymore, but the conscious side of my brain just kept telling me to push on.

“I might realise in six months that I want to compete again and chase titles, or I might realise it was the right decision after all. Only time will tell and I will never say never.

“Boxing has my whole heart and soul, I live for the sport, I’ll still train like a nutter and I’ll still coach. My team in Norwich and Thetford have reassured me I’ll always have a place there still.”

Dean trained under Everett and his son Joe in Norwich, coupled with dad Matt in Thetford, and sparred with the likes of former world title challenge Liam Walsh.

“Never say never,” said Graham Everett. “I am disappointed, but she has to be happy – you can’t play at boxing.

“Roni knows she is welcome into our gym any day of the week – she’s not just a boxer, she’s a personal friend.”

Dean added: “I am honestly so grateful to everyone who has supported me.”

“Graham and Joe Everett - you’re like family to me, friends for life and I’ll be eternally grateful to you both.

“To my dad who has given so many hours to training me. The whole of Thetford Town Boxing Club and the coaches there for being my second family and getting me through the tough days and cheering me on on the good days. My family and my friends who have supported me and believed in me, everyone who bought tickets and shared posts and just wanted me to succeed. My mum for dealing with ticket sales and organising it all for me. There has been so much support from the people around me and it has been a blessing to experience that.

“It’s hard, feels like I’m going through a breakup, but at this time I know it’s the right thing to do. Feel so lucky to have beautiful people around me who just wanted me to be happy and to be me.”

Norfolk will be represented at Ipswich’s Trinity Park this weekend, with Cullum Faherty facing Cristian Narvaez and looking to make it three wins from three.