Will boxing be great again?
by Owais Tabassum: Ah, boxing! Sweet science, combat games, noble art – the best sport ever? Let’s explore that concept.
The sport of boxing is a fascinating literature filled with countless stories, seductive myths, deep, deep-seated traditions, cinematic reenactments, redefine, tragedy, courage, forefortitude, and sometimes utterly insanity. It has been created!
This ancient Greek sport was born around 600 BC, and competitors were densely packed with one another in hands wrapped in leather strips. By the time the Romans gave this a wind, they introduced gloves with thick metal studs and sharp spikes of the skin (and of course they did). Boxing became a gladiator event, giving birth to the “pugilist,” and gave birth to a culture of celebrity fanfare that had been ramping up 2,000 years ago.
However, the collapse of the Roman Empire saw the decline of boxing from the Great Coliseum to medieval barns and linings. Boxing disappeared during the Middle Ages.
The revival of the sport was brewed in London, England in the 18th century. The pugilists fought for money and fame, laying out an era of “award fighters” and competed against exposed knuckles. Boxing was supported by upper class and, in some cases, royalty. This sponsorship helped to enhance the sport’s status and legitimacy.
But boxing was still mercilessly cruel.
Take this into consideration. The longest boxing match in history was fought between Andy Bowen and Jack Burke on the hot and humid field of New Orleans 1893. The fight went on to spend a total of 7 hours and 19 minutes and went on to spend an unbearable 110 rounds. Neither boxer was declared “no contest” as they were unable to continue after the 111th round.
Thankfully, the 19th century saw an adaptation of the “Queensbury Rules” introduced at the time by the Marquise of Queensbury (through the lawsuit, he sent Oscar Wilde to his stint at Leading Girl Prison).
Queensbury’s rules introduced padded leather gloves, round circles split into three-minute segments, attacking attacked enemies and sadistically spiked gloves. Sweet science was born. Strategic tactics encouraged calculated defense, clever footwork, and the idea of deducting and taking charge of the enemy, which brought new dynamics to previous, one-dimensional cruel events.
A weight class was established, regulatory and governing bodies replaced the slowly mob-controlled fits of corruption, and the British Boxing Commission ensured the safety and happiness of fighter jets.
Historically, boxing events have had a kind of magic that captivated ringside audiences such as movie stars, singers, world leaders, and socialites.
When the Irish sense fought during the troubles of homeland, it united Protestants and Catholics under the same roof and on terrestrial television. Barry’s message was clear: “McGigan left the fight.”
Philippine native Manny Pacquiao fought and the bustling streets of Manila stagnated. Law enforcement has reported a significant decline in crime.
Muhammad Ali voted for the sports personality of the century, possessing perhaps the most famous names and faces in the modern world, fighting worldwide, inspiring humanity wherever he went.
Today, when you travel through Fair Toughman/Hammer Striking Games, you will notice images of British greats such as Henry Cooper and Frank Bruno.
decline
In the 2000s, sports declined. Boxing has lost popularity mainly due to expensive PPV matches in disrespectful hours. The greedy promoter prevented the best from competing with the best, and many “alphabet titles” have caused confusion about who the world champions are in fact.
In the 2000s, “UFC” or “Mixed Martial Arts” enjoyed an astronomical increase in popularity, earning the majority of “Fight Fans.” The reason for this was easy to understand. The event was spectacular, the best battles were the best battles, and they were run by a single governing body, as they were not corrupted by politics.
future
But today, boxing is making a new revival under an unlikely alliance with Saudi Arabian sports minister Torki Aralshiv. Turki has ambition to see the best competition that doesn’t seem to cost to deliver high quality events
A promotional video directed by Guy Richie and others. The fighters are naturally brilliantly paid, captivating battle cards, and many “unified” matches are played. All the major boxing promoters appear to form an Avengers-style assembly of boxers. Of course, that’s not without critics, and times will say whether this is ultimately great for the sport.
Modern Championship matches are 12 rounds long, drug testing is strict and the safety of competitors is paramount. The grassroots remain sturdy. Boxing gyms across the country support misguided young people and bring hope to athletes. Women’s boxing is also thriving. I beg you to own any bias you may have, see Katie Taylor’s event and be amazed at the skill and skill skill on display.
This pride in the historic sport lives on through the next generation of competitors and champions. Boxing could really be great again, and I will be one of the sharp observers.