By Oliver Fennell
While riding my motorbike, I found myself overtaking a lorry when I noticed a sharp bend in the road ahead. Spotting a barrier, I couldn’t help but think that colliding with it would have fatal consequences. Glancing at the speedometer, I noticed it displayed 80mph, prompting me to instinctively accelerate by hitting the throttle.
I collided with the side of the barrier, and suddenly darkness engulfed me. In the blink of an eye, a man appeared, cradling my head and reassuring me, “You’re alright, you’re alright.” In that moment, I couldn’t help but ponder, “Just how unfortunate am I? It seems even divine forces have forsaken me.”
Afterwards, I found myself being rushed into an ambulance and shortly thereafter, admitted to the hospital. The moments in between are nothing but a series of blackouts. During the initial three days, I underwent five or six surgeries, and for the following four or five weeks, I remained in a state of high dependence. When I finally regained consciousness, the doctor informed me that my situation was so dire that they had contemplated amputating my arm. However, someone recognized me and insisted that I would require it.”
The hospital worker accurately identified Crawford Ashley, the professional boxer, but he had already abandoned his limb for competitive purposes. The tragic crash, intentionally aimed at causing harm, occurred precisely due to Ashley’s departure from boxing. As a light-heavyweight from Leeds, he, like many others, faced difficulties in discovering a sense of direction beyond the boxing ring.
He expresses, “A sense of not fitting in overwhelmed me, and no matter where I turned, I couldn’t find any kind-hearted individuals. Exhaustion consumed me. All I craved was to drift into slumber, to escape from it all.”
He is uncertain about the exact timing of the crash, stating, “Me and time don’t really get along.” However, he knows it occurred a few years after his career ended in 2001. To fill the void, he embarked on a journey of traveling. Reflecting on this period, he shares, “Everywhere I went, people would ask, ‘What do you do?’ When I responded with ‘I do nothing,’ they would struggle to place me in society, unsure of how to interact with me. There’s immense pressure in our world to constantly be busy and achieve. But must one do something in order to be someone?”
Well, Ashley certainly did something, and was someone – and still is. Many ex-boxers may be haunted by the past tense of their status, but not even time can erase names from record books. What Ashley did defines what he is: a champion.
He is known for being true to his promises. Reflecting on his decision to turn professional, Ashley affirms, “I made a firm commitment to myself that I only desire a Lonsdale belt in boxing and once I retire, there will be no comeback.”
Not only did Ashley achieve both, but he surpassed expectations. Alongside his six British title victories, he also held dominion over the Commonwealth twice, conquered Europe twice, and made two valiant attempts to conquer the world. His only defeats came at the hands of Michael Nunn and Virgil Hill, who were widely regarded as the top contenders of their time.
While Ashley grappled with retiring, the temptation to make a comeback was undeniable. However, when asked about breaking his vow of not returning, Ashley firmly states, “No, I cannot go back on my word. It’s something I simply cannot do.”
“After my 2001 defeat to Sebastiaan Rothmann, retirement unexpectedly slipped out of my mouth,” he recalls. “And once it was uttered, there was no turning back.”
“Throughout the altercation, something felt off. Subsequently, I was plagued by an excruciating headache. Bob Paget, my trainer, reassured me, ‘You were leading on all three scorecards; you have the option to seek a rematch.’ Declining his offer, I firmly stated, ‘No, I’m done, my friend.'”
“I had the opportunity to get up. I managed to rise five times while facing Michael Nunn.”
At the age of 37, it became evident that he was finished, indicated by his failure to oppose Rothmann.
The most beneficial choice I have ever made, although the most challenging to remain committed to.
However, he remained steadfast in his determination until a high-speed collision with a barrier made any potential decision-making irrelevant.
“He claims that society tends to overlook the struggles of mental health, focusing instead on physical injuries,” he explains. Although I cannot peer into his thoughts, he proceeds to reveal the visible aftermath of his suicide attempt by rolling up his right sleeve and trouser leg. The display showcases extensive scar tissue, deformed bones, and a finger that is no longer present.
He recounts, “After enduring a shattering injury to my right arm, it required a grueling four-year journey to regain proper mobility. Surprisingly, though, it was a truly remarkable experience. If given the chance to relive my life, I wouldn’t exclude that accident. It taught me invaluable lessons and exposed the true nature of friendships; how some people vanish when you’re in need. Those who claim to be there for you in tough times rarely answer their phone. However, this adversity provided me with a newfound determination. I made a firm decision to prioritize my recovery.”
In order to accomplish this, he embarked on another journey, traveling once more. “I visited Cambodia and later explored Laos, encountering the most delightful and hospitable individuals. Subsequently, I resided in Thailand for a couple of years. It happened to be the year when the Mayan calendar concluded [2012], and personally, I place great faith in its predictions. I reasoned that if a solar flare were to strike and disrupt everything, I would prefer to be situated on a serene beach when it occurs.”
In Pattaya, I managed to survive on a daily budget of £6. My monthly room expenses amounted to £75. Spending five days a week at the gym, I found contentment in my routine. Thailand, often referred to as the Land of Smiles, played a significant role in restoring my happiness, giving me back my precious smile.
Jamaica, a preferred travel destination, has also been a positive experience for him. He shares, “My father originates from Jamaica. I have relatives and family members residing there, along with a vast expanse of approximately 80 acres of land situated seven miles away from Mandeville, nestled in the scenic mountains, encompassing authentic wilderness.”
I have a vision of constructing an eco lodge in that location, specifically designed to cater to ex-boxers. It would serve as an ideal space for them to reside, and in return for a few hours of work each day, I would provide them with a comfortable shelter.
Ashley, who once had a daring disposition as a child, will soon celebrate her 60th birthday in May with an extended getaway in Jamaica—a splendid destination to commemorate this significant milestone.
“He describes his childhood as brilliant because he was able to do whatever he desired,” he expresses. “Although my dad was constantly busy with work, I never had the chance to see him. However, I was always fortunate enough to have a shelter, clothing, and food.”
As a child, I had an insatiable craving for danger. We would engage in reckless games like chicken, or someone would challenge me to jump off a roof onto a mattress. Without hesitation, I would always accept these challenges. Consequently, every time we went on vacation, I found myself hospitalized.
Gary Crawford’s appetite for danger led him into boxing at the age of seven, following in the footsteps of his older brother Glen. However, not everything was as “brilliant” as it seemed for the young lad. As a result, he is now known by a different name than the one he was born with. Therefore, the question arises: how did Gary Crawford transform into Crawford Ashley?
“I have a dislike for the name Gary,” he states, “as it was bestowed upon me by my mother, whom I held no affection for.”
When I think back to my earliest recollection of her, I was merely four years old, and I distinctly remember overhearing her express her lack of desire for my presence. Can you imagine the impact that would have on your emotions?
Upon turning professional, I was given the opportunity to adopt an alternate name. My fondness for the name Ashley led me to choose Crawford Ashley as my new identity.
After becoming disenchanted with the amateur ranks and encountering legal trouble, he decided to turn pro in May 1987.
“I wasn’t particularly concerned [about turning pro], but then I found out that a guy I defeated made it to the Commonwealths. Curious, I inquired about the reason behind his success, and they mentioned his greater experience. I retorted, ‘More experience in what, getting knocked out?'”
Ashley’s encounter with another form of unpaid fighting propelled her towards a more earnest commitment to the official form.
“He assaulted me and ended up worse off,” he explains. “I was standing outside the pub when suddenly the bouncer attacked me from behind. He lied about what happened, and unfortunately, the witnesses only saw me retaliating. This situation put me in serious jeopardy of a five-year prison sentence. [My solicitor] advised me to plead guilty, but I refused. As a result, the case went to trial. I was ultimately found guilty, but the punishment was only a £100 fine and £25 in compensation. So, I essentially confined myself to a monotonous routine of going back and forth between the gym and home, as if I were in prison.”
And so began the professional journey, which spanned 14 years and witnessed the inclusion of numerous renowned figures and memorable moments, regardless of victory or defeat. Along the way, he had mixed results with a young Johnny Nelson (losing by points in 8 rounds) and Carl Thompson (winning by referee stopped contest in 6 rounds). In February 1991, while vying for the European title, he experienced a controversial loss against Graciano Rocchigiani in Germany. Despite the judgement, he firmly believed he had triumphed over his opponent. Interestingly, the same Germans who had previously insulted and racially abused him were now embracing him. He even requested a rematch in English, but Rocchigiani claimed not to understand the language.
The initial British reign commenced after a lapse of five months. Two impressive defenses, notably a swift victory over Jimmy Peters, significantly boosted his reputation. Despite facing criticism for a contentious European title match against Yawe Davis on foreign soil, his standing remained unharmed. While some may have been perturbed by the drawn outcome of Ashley’s bout against an Italian in Italy, he himself remained unfazed. He dismissed any concerns, stating, “Why should I be bothered? I am confident I won. The fight took place in a casino with a meager crowd of 40-50 people, lacking any atmosphere. It was a disappointing experience.”
Despite the order for a rematch, negotiations fell apart. However, frustration quickly turned into joy when the strategic contractual moves resulted in an opportunity for a major breakthrough.
According to Ashley, the purse bids were submitted and Barney Eastwood emerged as the winner. However, he informed me that he could only offer a payment of 10 thousand dollars for the fight, which would take place in Leeds. I agreed to this arrangement. However, at a later point, he informed me that he was unable to secure a TV date and had returned the offer to the Italians. Despite this, he insisted that I would still receive only 10 thousand dollars. I firmly declined his offer and stated that if I were to ever box again, it would not be under his management.
Frank Warren called me and said, “I heard you left Eastwood. Can you move up to super-middleweight? We have a title fight with Michael Nunn in 21 days. Are you interested?” Without hesitation, I confidently replied, “Absolutely, no problem.”
“After an intense workout session, I skipped a meal without any concern, as my excitement was coursing through my veins. Thoughts of both my opponent’s skills and my own abilities filled my mind, fueling my anticipation. I simply felt fully prepared to step into the ring and face any challenge.”
Maybe too ready – Ashley weighed in at just 163lbs for the April 23, 1993, shot at Nunn’s WBA 168lbs belt. Unsurprisingly, body shots put an end to Ashley’s brave challenge inside the Pyramid in Memphis, with five knockdowns all from hooks to the flanks of a 6ft 3ins frame that was already lean even up at light-heavy.
Although it was an excruciating encounter, Ashley found a strange enjoyment in it. “Oh, it was absolutely fantastic,” he exclaims. “He was undoubtedly the most formidable opponent I’ve ever faced. His precision was uncanny; he would narrowly evade my punches, only to counter with three or four of his own. He would trap me against the ropes, land a blow, and in an instant, he would disappear. Yet, I would have cherished an opportunity for a rematch at a mutually agreeable weight category – him at his optimal weight and me at mine.”
Despite not being able to fulfill his wish, he was given another opportunity for a second WBA shot in the light-heavyweight division two years later. However, Ashley claims that his enthusiasm was drained by Virgil Hill, or at least the people organizing the event, before the first bell rang in Primm, Nevada.
With a deep sigh, he reminisces, “I remember when the guy barged into my dressing room and announced that I had a fight in just 20 minutes. I hurriedly began preparing myself, only to be interrupted again with the instruction that I would be up next when he knocked on the door. Sure enough, he knocks and informs me that I’ll be fighting after the upcoming bout and reassures me that it won’t take long. However, that fight ends up going the full distance, dragging on for an hour and a half. The wait was excruciating. By the time it was finally my turn to step into the ring, I had lost all motivation.”
Hill would secure a resounding victory through a unanimous decision, leaving Ashley without any chance of another shot at a ‘world’ title. Nevertheless, prior to the Hill challenge, Ashley had already become a two-time British champion, showcasing his skills through a remarkable points win against Nicky Piper in an exciting bout that took place five months earlier. In March 1997, Ashley would finally achieve European glory after making three attempts.
Ashley reflects on his victory over Roberto Dominguez, stating, “I had dreamt of landing a right uppercut in the third round and that’s exactly what transpired.” However, winning the belt that he had initially strived for six years ago seemed unremarkable to him, as it felt like a long overdue achievement.
However, all hopes of reclaiming world glory were brutally crushed when he suffered a two-round stoppage defeat to Ole Klemetsen from Norway in October 1997. “I wasn’t focused on the fight,” he admits. “My ex-wife contacted me and informed me that one of our children was in trouble because of my actions. It was not the right mental state to step into the ring.”
Ashley’s rollercoaster career was headed towards its ultimate destination with a blood-soaked Yorkshire derby against Clinton Woods (l rsf 8, March 1999), marking the last significant bout. Along the way, there were aspirations of a second wife (although currently unmarried), a second European reign, a Commonwealth championship, and numerous defenses of the Lonsdale Belt.
After more than two decades, Ashley’s remarkable record (33-10-1, including 28 early wins) stands as a testament to the excitement he brought to the sport. With a wealth of life experiences under his belt, Ashley can proudly declare that he has successfully kept one of his children off the streets by guiding them towards a career in the boxing ring.
Theo Crawford, the second child among Ashley’s three kids, has dreams of becoming a successful boxer, and his dad has high hopes for his rapid success.
“He has participated in just five amateur fights, securing four victories, but I firmly believe that he will become a world champion within the next five years,” remarks the coach about the talented 21-year-old currently training at Bethlehem Boxing Club in Leeds, where Ashley now serves as a coach. “My desire is for him to turn professional immediately. The only obstacle is to locate a suitable manager and promoter for him. Ideally, I would love for him to compete for a Central Area title in his debut fight.”
After attending school, college, and university, he successfully obtained a degree. Presently, he is employed by a reputable company. Throughout his life, he has managed to steer clear of any encounters with the police. Although he lacks the street credibility or a rebellious nature, it doesn’t hinder him in any way. What sets him apart is his rare determination to uncover his true potential.
Much like his dad, then.
