My Girlfriend Wants to Kill Me (And I Don't Blame Her)

By Lewis Barnett 2 June, 2025 6 mins read 59 Views

So here's the thing about timing. Sometimes life decides to throw you a curveball that's equal parts dream come true and relationship nightmare.

I'm Fabio Wardley, and I'm about to fight at Portman Road - literally my childhood dream venue - exactly one week before my girlfriend is supposed to give birth to our first kid. A daughter.

Yeah. The conversation went about as well as you'd expect.

Audio Playback

When Your Dream Fight Becomes Your Domestic Disaster

Look, I've been an Ipswich fan my entire life. When they told me I could fight at Portman Road, I nearly cried. This isn't just any fight - it's THE fight. The one I've been dreaming about since I was a kid watching Town play.

My missus? She had... different feelings about the timing.

"This is a slightly tense topic," I told Ring Magazine, which is probably the understatement of 2025. "My missus wasn't the happiest with this fight date. She is due a week later but it is Portman Road. It's not just any fight, it's the one at Portman Road."

Her response was basically: "Yeah I know but..." followed by that look. You know the one. The look that says you're sleeping on the couch until further notice.

First Babies Are Always Late, Right? RIGHT?

Everyone keeps telling me first babies come late. My mate just had his little girl and she was two weeks overdue. But honestly? Who knows. Babies don't exactly follow fight schedules.

"Whatever will be will be at this stage," I said, trying to sound philosophical while internally panicking. "I'm just focusing on my job at this point and that is winning the fight."

It's a mad June. Hell, it's a mad 2025.

But watching my best mate with his daughter has turned me into a complete softie, if I'm being honest. Seeing him hold this tiny person and just... melt. That's going to be me in a week or two.

From Daddy Daycare to Destroyer Mode

People keep asking how I'll handle being a dad and a fighter. Like somehow having a baby means I'll lose my edge or something.

Here's what I think: it's going to be double bubble for me. When I'm home with her and my family, I'll be soft as anything. But when it's training time, fight time? Complete opposite.

That little girl is going to be depending on me. Relying on me. I need to go out there and do my job - not just for me anymore, but for her. That doesn't make me weaker. That makes me more dangerous.

The Australian Problem (Sorry, Justis)

Originally, I was supposed to fight Jarrell Miller. Big American, lots of hype, perfect storyline. Then he pulled out with an injury - shocking, I know, considering his track record with failed drug tests.

So now it's Justis Huni stepping in on short notice. Unbeaten Aussie, 26 years old, hungry to upset the hometown hero. Poor guy has no idea what he's walking into.

Fighting at Portman Road, in front of my people, with my daughter about to arrive? I've never been more motivated in my life.

Pressure? What Pressure?

"Pressure is a privilege," I keep saying, and I mean it. Being here is a privilege. Being able to fight at the stadium where I've watched countless matches as a fan? That's not pressure - that's pure adrenaline.

I've fought everywhere now. Small halls, York Hall, Riyadh, Gibraltar. I knocked out Frazer Clarke in brutal fashion last October after we had that war of a draw six months before. I've done it all.

But this? This is different.

When the lights are bright and the occasion is big, that's when you get the best from me. The biggest amount of heart, grit, determination. Me firing on all cylinders.

June 7th, I'm bringing everything - all that experience, all that hunger, all that desperation to make my daughter proud before she's even born.

And then? Then I'm going home to become a dad.

Assuming my girlfriend lets me back in the house.

Frequently Asked Questions

How important mental toughness is it in professional Boxing?

Mental toughness is as vital as physical conditioning in professional boxing. The sport demands resilience, focus, the ability to handle pressure, and the psychological fortitude to overcome adversity. Mental preparation is a combination of stress management, visualization and a strong mentality to meet the challenges that are faced in the ring. Mental toughness is essential for a boxer to be able to perform at their best under the pressure of professional competition.

What qualities should a person look for in a trainer or coach of boxing?

When seeking a boxing coach or trainer, one should look for experience, a successful track record with other boxers, compatibility in coaching style, and a deep understanding of the sport's technical and strategic aspects. A good boxing trainer will also focus on safety, personal growth, and conditioning. It is also important to find a boxing coach who can motivate you and communicate effectively.

How do boxers control their weight and maintain their weight classes?

Boxers maintain their weight with a combination of strict diets, and training. Nutritionists will help develop a weight loss plan for boxers that is based on their goals and doesn't compromise nutrition or training energy. Regular weight checks and consistent exercise are essential, especially when a fight is approaching. Weight management is an important strategic process. If done incorrectly it can lead to poor performance or health issues.

What are the dangers of professional boxing?

Like any contact sport, professional boxing is not without its risks. There are many acute injuries that may occur, including head trauma and fractures. Chronic conditions can also develop, such a concussions. Boxing regulations, safety gear, and proper training can help reduce risks. However, they cannot be completely eliminated. Boxing professionally requires you to accept and understand these risks.

What type of diet is best for a beginner boxer?

A novice should consume a diet with a balance of nutrients that supports intense workouts, and promotes recovery. A mix of carbohydrates is best for energy, lean protein to repair and build muscle, and healthy fats to improve overall health. Also, vitamins and minerals, as well as hydration, are important. Consulting a sports nutritionist to develop a diet plan that is tailored for the boxer's weight class and training schedule can be beneficial.

How long does it take to become an elite boxer?

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. On average, it could take several years of dedicated training and successful amateur experience before one is ready to turn professional. Some people may develop more quickly while others will take more time.

What equipment is essential for someone starting in professional boxing?

The essential boxing equipment for someone who is just getting started in professional fighting includes gloves, wraps, a headgear and footwear. For technical training, a heavy bag, a speed bag, a double-end bag and other aids are essential. It is essential to use equipment that provides protection and durability. Otherwise, you may increase your risk of injury.

Statistics

Less than 10% of professional boxers are undefeated throughout their career, highlighting the sport's competitive nature.
Research shows that a boxer's reaction time is typically under 0.25 seconds, honed through repetitive drills and sparring.
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.
Reports suggest that successful professional boxers can earn upwards of 50 times more than the median purse for entry-level professionals per fight.
Professional boxers typically train 4 to 6 hours per day, 5 to 6 days a week, depending on their fight schedule.
Approximately 80% of professional boxers start their career in the amateur ranks before transitioning to the professional level.
Nutrition experts emphasize that over 70% of a boxer's diet should focus on carbohydrates and proteins for energy and recovery.

External Links

How To

How to lose weight before a boxing match

Managing your weight before a boxing fight requires a disciplined approach. Set up a diet plan that emphasizes lean protein, complex carbohydrates and hydration, while reducing high-sodium, high-fat food. You can manipulate your water weight by increasing water intake a few weeks before the event and then reducing it gradually. Add sauna sessions to your routine if you need to and intensify your workouts if extra pounds are a problem. However, always prioritize safety and avoid drastic weight loss methods.