God. Sometimes I wonder why I still cover boxing press conferences. Yesterday's face-off between Brandon Glanton and Chris Billam-Smith left me feeling like I needed a shower afterward. The American's comments weren't just trash talk - they crossed every conceivable line in a sport already dangerous enough.
I've been covering boxing since 2011, and I've heard some truly awful things said at press conferences. Fighters threatening to kill each other, personal insults about families... but Glanton's explicit promise to cause "brain damage" to CBS made my stomach turn. There's selling a fight, and then there's whatever the hell that was.
When Handshakes Go Wrong
So here's the backstory that nobody's really talking about. Last year after Billam-Smith's victory over Lawrence Okolie (fantastic fight, by the way), Glanton claims he extended his hand and CBS walked right past him. I was actually there, standing about 10 feet away, and honestly... it looked more like a chaotic moment in teh post-fight celebration than a deliberate snub.
But Glanton's been nursing this grudge like it's his firstborn child.
"I stuck my hand out, he walked straight past me. It's disrespectful," Glanton fumed at yesterday's presser. Then he went nuclear: "We're men before we're fighters, right? And he's a father before he's a fighter so your son has a b***h as a father."
Yikes.
Those Horrifying Comments Nobody Asked For
The room went dead silent when Glanton continued his rant. "I don't care about these cameras, these lights, I'm going to f*** you up. That's why I'm here. It's not a show everyone knows, I'm going to give you brain damage."
I've interviewed Billam-Smith three times. The guy brings his young son to some events. He's possibly the most level-headed, decent bloke in British boxing. My colleague James (who's covered him since his amateur days) texted me immediately: "This is disgusting. CBS doesn't deserve this crap."
The Internet Erupts
Social media went absolutely ballistic. One fan wrote that "Brandon Glanton should be reprimanded for his comments on Chris Billam-Smith. Absolutely no need for that sort of language."
Another called him "a clown" and questioned "Why's he going in that much on CBS? One of the nicest guys in boxing."
The strongest reaction came from a long-time boxing writer who demanded consequences: "In a sport like boxing there needs to be consequences for saying you want to give someone brain damage. Appalling."
And then there was the simple but effective: "Brandon Glanton absolutely sucks."
The Class Act vs. The Classless Act
I've gotta give props to Billam-Smith. When asked to respond to this verbal sewage, the former WBO champion simply said: "I'll leave my talking to Saturday."
That's it. No matching the vitriol, no getting dragged into the mud. Just a promise to handle business in the ring at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend.
Remember, this is the same Billam-Smith who beat Lawrence Okolie for the WBO title and made two solid defenses before dropping it to Gilberto Ramirez back in November. The man from Bournemouth has earned his respect in this sport.
What Happens Next?
Glanton brings a 20-2 record with 17 KOs to this fight. The guy can clearly punch. But after yesterday's disgusting display, I'm finding it hard to be objective about this matchup.
I spent $120 on tickets to see this card live (mainly for the Eubank Jr vs Benn main event), but now I'm actually looking forward to this undercard scrap for all the wrong reasons.
Look, boxing has always had its villains. It's part of the theater. But there's a line between selling a fight and showing complete disregard for another fighter's wellbeing... and Glanton didn't just cross it - he obliterated it.
Saturday can't come soon enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
How important is physical fitness in professional boxing?
Physical fitness is essential for professional boxing. Sport requires high levels strength, speed endurance and agility. Professional boxers should follow a tailored fitness plan that includes aerobic and aerobic workouts, strength and endurance training, and flexible exercises. Boxers' ability to perform and train effectively in the ring will be compromised if they do not have superior physical condition.
How important is mental toughness in professional boxing?
In professional boxing, mental toughness is just as important as physical fitness. The sport requires mental toughness, resilience, and the ability of handling pressure. Mental preparation is a combination of stress management, visualization and a strong mentality to meet the challenges that are faced in the ring. Without mental toughness in the ring, boxers may not be able perform to their full potential.
How long is it usually required to become a professional fighter?
The time taken to become an elite boxer is variable. It depends on the individual's starting skill level, adaptability to the sport, and the quality of training received. In general, it takes several years of training and experience as an amateur to be ready for the professional world. However, some exceptional talents might advance more quickly, while others may need more time to develop.
What age can you learn to box professionally?
There are age restrictions in professional boxing. Most boxing commissions require boxers to be at least 18 years old to fight professionally. While there isn't a specific upper age limit, health and physical factors will limit how old you can compete safely and effectively. Before taking up a sport professionally, older athletes should be assessed thoroughly for their fitness and risks.
What qualities should a person look for in a trainer or coach of boxing?
If you are looking for a boxing trainer or coach, look for someone with experience, who has a proven track record of success, has a similar coaching style and a thorough understanding of both the technical and strategic elements of the sport. A good trainer also stresses safety, conditioning, as well as personal growth. A coach that motivates and communicates well is important in order to achieve your full potential.
What type of diet is best for a beginner boxer?
A novice boxer needs to follow a balanced nutritional diet that will fuel intense workouts while promoting recovery. In general, it is recommended that you consume a mixture of carbohydrates for energy and lean protein for muscle growth and repair. Vitamins and minerals are also essential. Consulting with a sports nutritionist can provide a personalized diet plan that aligns with the boxer's training regimen and weight class targets.
Can anyone learn to box?
Not everyone can compete at the professional level. Professional boxing demands a unique combination of talent as well as physical abilities, mental strength and dedication. Prospective boxers also need to be willing to accept the inherent risks associated with the sport. A thorough evaluation by a trainer will help determine the potential of a person to have a successful career in boxing.
Statistics
- On average, a professional boxer spars between 100 to 200 rounds in preparation for a major fight.
- Research shows that a boxer's reaction time is typically under 0.25 seconds, honed through repetitive drills and sparring.
- As per recent surveys, only about 17% of professional boxers reach a title shot opportunity in their careers.
- Nutrition experts emphasize that over 70% of a boxer's diet should focus on carbohydrates and proteins for energy and recovery.
- The average age for boxers to turn professional is between 18 to 25 years, though many continue to compete well into their 30s and beyond.
- Statistical data indicates that there has been a 15% increase in the number of professional boxing gyms over the last decade.
- Less than 10% of professional boxers are undefeated throughout their career, highlighting the sport's competitive nature.
External Links
How To
How to build endurance for boxing
Building endurance is essential for sustaining energy throughout a boxing match. Engage in aerobic activities like running, cycling, or swimming to boost cardiovascular health. Incorporate high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into your workouts for explosive power and endurance. Interval training can be done on a heavybag, where periods of high intensity punching are alternated with resting periods. This simulates the demands of boxing rounds. Consistently increasing intensity and duration will help you to improve your endurance.
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