By Radio Rahim

WBO welterweight champion Timothy Bradley (33-1-1, 13KOs) made a big statement on Saturday night, when he knocked out Brandon Rios in nine rounds at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

It was the first knockout defeat of Rios' career and his third loss in his last five fights. At only 29-years-old, Rios announced his retirement at Saturday's post-fight press conference.

Rios appeared to be a little soft in the midsection and he struggled a bit to make the welterweight limit. During his retirement speech, Rios admitted to not "giving it his all" when it came to preparing for the fight.

Bradley, who is 32-years-old, believes Rios should reconsider his decision to walk away.

A lot of fighters decide to retire based on their emotions in the aftermath of a loss - which is why so many fighters come out of retirement time and time again.

If he resumes his career and stays completely focused in the gym, Bradley could see a potential bright future for Rios.

"It's sad [that he decided to retire]. I don't know if it's a rational decision because of the disappointment [from the loss]. I really hope that he gives it some time and really thinks about it, because he's still young, he still has a fighting opportunity and he can still come back and rise. He just has to get focused. That's it. It's all about focus. He need to focus and take care of himself," Bradley told BoxingScene.com.

"He come back, because he can fight. He can truly fight. He's a very, very talented guy in what he does, when he comes forward and applies the pressure. He's a big puncher, he can take a punch. But it's very sad [that he decided to retire] and I wish nothing but the best for him."