Listening is arguably the most crucial factor in a boxer’s life, akin to a hidden ingredient. The act of listening has the potential to determine the outcome of a match, making it the decisive factor between victory and defeat.
However, there are instances when individuals seem so preoccupied with their own affairs that they lack interest in external matters or refuse to listen. They simply disconnect.
I have been closely monitoring the progress of the Ringside Charitable Trust (RCT) and its development. A couple of years ago, I embarked on a trip to Florida, USA alongside a team of former boxing champions, trainers, and other members of the boxing community. Our purpose in going there was to promote awareness of RCT and Kids Beating Cancer, with the support of the Moth Foundation.
I stay updated on the latest developments of RCT through social media posts by the people directly involved in the charity, as well as articles in this publication. My aim is to identify any progress or changes, especially in terms of transactions. It would be fantastic if current boxers, managers, and promoters, especially those who have influence, show a vested interest in supporting this cause. Naturally, they are in a better position to make a significant impact on an incredibly deserving cause compared to anyone else.
In my perspective, boxing stands as one of the most challenging disciplines within the realm of sports worldwide. Boxers dedicate themselves to preparing for fights, aiming to provide entertainment for fans. In doing so, they exhibit immense bravery and determination. By their very nature, certain boxers push themselves to their absolute limits, occasionally requiring intervention to protect them from their own relentless drive. Even when faced with a seemingly insurmountable struggle, they persevere until the very end, fighting until the final bell.
Boxing is a combat sport where the devastating impact of landed punches cannot be underestimated. It is crucial to remember that every time a boxer enters the ring, they are just one punch away from enduring severe, and even life-threatening, injuries. While such incidents are fortunately infrequent, the gradual accumulation of punches can result in lasting damage.
I participated in competitions throughout the 1980s and 90s, where I personally witnessed fellow boxers, who were in close proximity to me, endure the physical consequences of taking punches.
Harry Senior, a former Southern Area heavyweight champion, was one of the boxers I admired. Recognizing his talent as a young and skilled heavyweight, I enlisted him as my sparring partner to aid in my fight preparations for several matches.
Unfortunately, years down the line, Harry experienced a stroke while engaging in a sparring session with Albert Sosnowski, who was training for a European title fight. Every now and then, I come across Harry. He maintains his pride, and he has made significant strides in his recovery since the incident. However, he has undergone a noticeable transformation from the robust heavyweight I once knew, having shed a considerable amount of weight.
Rod Douglas doesn’t seem to be in the spotlight these days, but he was a remarkable amateur boxer and a skilled professional. We used to train together in Tottenham. I was present on the fateful night when he sustained a severe injury in his fight against Herol Graham, who I was also acquainted with and is currently facing his own difficulties.
Including Michael Watson MBE in this article is a must, as we shared a close friendship during our early professional years and were even born just days apart. The injury Michael sustained during his 1991 rematch with Chris Eubank garnered worldwide attention, given their status as prominent boxers. Unfortunately, it is disheartening to acknowledge that numerous other fighters, who have been devastated by the sport of boxing, remain relatively unknown and consequently receive minimal recognition or assistance.
Is it plausible to assume that Frank Bruno and Tyson Fury are the only boxers who have experienced depression, considering that their struggles brought this issue to the public’s attention?
Continuing the list is endless, but the focus should not solely be on naming individuals and their injuries. The main objective is to comprehend why the most influential figures are not backing RCT. If you happen to hold significant influence in boxing and have managed to read this far, I urge you to reflect on the actions you are taking to contribute positively.
Maybe it is not considered advantageous for your business to advertise your events and the RCT. By doing so, you are essentially acknowledging that what brings you profits also endangers lives. Accept it. Admit it. Free yourselves from guilt.
I am grateful that I managed to exit the game without any mental or physical harm. Furthermore, boxing has made significant strides in ensuring the safety of its participants. Additionally, boxers, especially those at the pinnacle of the sport, now earn substantially more compared to the past. This advancement can be attributed, in part, to the major promoters. However, considering the vast amount of money involved in the sport, there is still much more they can do.
Although I didn’t make anywhere near the amount of money that modern boxers earn as a prizefighter, I gained immense respect from the industry. This respect was earned by consistently offering assistance and support to fellow boxers who were struggling due to health issues or financial hardships.
As a former boxer who dedicated my everything in the ring, and having witnessed the struggles that can befall other retired boxers, I implore all boxers, managers, promoters, and anyone invested in the sport’s future to pay heed. It is crucial that we take care of our own.
Join together to guarantee the prosperity of Ringside Charitable Trust. We must ensure that boxers have a sanctuary, receive assistance and support, and never feel neglected. This is the bare minimum that we, as an industry and a family, can accomplish.
