This Knockout Made Me Believe in Boxing Again

By Lewis Barnett 8 June, 2025 6 mins read 54 Views

God, I still get chills thinking about it.

So there I was Saturday night, watching what looked like another predictable heavyweight snoozefest. Fabio Wardley getting picked apart by some Aussie nobody (sorry Justis) who took the fight on five weeks notice. Classic mismatch vibes. I was already mentally drafting my "British boxing needs help" rant when... well, you know what happened next.

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When Everything Goes Sideways in Round Ten

Look, I've been covering fights since 2019 and I thought I'd seen every type of comeback. The slow grind. The lucky shot. The referee gift. But this? Wardley throwing that Hail Mary right hand with ten rounds of getting outboxed behind him? That's the kind of madness that reminds you why we watch this brutal sport.

Poor Huni was cruising. Ahead on every scorecard, landing more shots, making Wardley look like he belonged back in recruitment consulting rather than a boxing ring. Then BOOM.

One punch changes everything.

The Dressing Room Footage That Hit Different

Here's where this story gets real though. Matchroom's cameras caught Huni backstage right after getting knocked senseless, and honestly? It made me feel stupid for ever doubting the guy's character.

Hugging his family member, still probably seeing stars, the 26-year-old says: "S*** happens, you know. I will come back, just bounce back. We just keep our head up and bounce back. It is what it is. Head up team, head up! We bounce back, it's boxing."

I mean... damn. That's not PR training talking. That's genuine class when your world just got rearranged by a right hand.

Why This Matters More Than Another Belt

The comments section (yeah, I read those) went absolutely mental for Huni's reaction. "Class act this chap very respectful throughout." "Gained a lot of supporters – not just by the way he boxed, but also the way he conducted himself afterward." "Lovely guy, he'll be back."

And they're right. In an era where fighters manufacture beef for Instagram likes, watching someone handle devastating defeat with that kind of grace? It's like finding a unicorn at a gas station.

Wardley, meanwhile, kept it brutally honest about his performance: "I don't profess to be any kind of Usyk or Justis Huni – someone with all the skills. But one thing I do know is how to win fights, dig deep, find a bit of heart, bite down on the gumshield, find a way to win."

The Punch That Mattered

Stats don't lie – Huni was winning this fight going away. More shots thrown, more landed, better technique, better game plan. But boxing isn't a spreadsheet competition.

Sometimes it comes down to one moment. One perfectly timed right hand that turns a recruitment consultant into a WBA interim champion and sends an undefeated prospect back to the drawing board.

That's the beautiful cruelty of this sport right there.

Wardley's still unbeaten, Huni learned that five weeks notice against a desperate hometown fighter is dangerous business, and I got reminded why I fell in love with boxing in teh first place. Not the worst Saturday night I've had, honestly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best equipment for a beginner in professional boxing to start with?

For anyone starting in professional boxing, the essential equipment includes boxing gloves, hand wraps, a mouthguard, headgear (for sparring), and proper footwear. The use of a heavy, speed, or double-end bag is essential for technical workouts. Use quality gear that is durable and offers protection. Poor equipment can lead to injury.

How important is mental strength in professional boxing?

Mental toughness is as vital as physical conditioning in professional boxing. The sport requires mental toughness, resilience, and the ability of handling pressure. Mental preparation involves visualization, stress management techniques, and developing a strong mindset to confront the challenges within the ring. Without mental toughness in the ring, boxers may not be able perform to their full potential.

What are the dangers of professional boxing?

Like any contact sport, professional boxing is not without its risks. There are acute injuries, including cuts, bruises and broken bones. Also, there may be chronic conditions, like concussions syndromes or neurological disorders, that can develop from repeated impacts. The risks can be reduced with proper training, safety devices, and adhering to boxing rules, but never completely eliminated. Accepting and understanding these risks are essential to choosing to box professionally.

Is it possible to learn boxing professionally for anyone?

Boxing is a sport that many people can enjoy, but not everyone has what it takes for them to compete on a professional stage. Professional boxing requires a unique blend of talent, physical abilities, mental toughness, and dedication. Prospective boxers should also be willing accept the inherent risk of the sport. A thorough examination by a trainer is a good way to determine whether or not someone has potential for a boxing career.

Does learning professional boxing have an age restriction?

Age restrictions are in place for professional boxing. Most boxing commissions require boxers to be at least 18 years old to fight professionally. There is no upper limit to the age that a person can safely compete, but there are factors such as physical abilities and health. Before taking up a sport professionally, older athletes should be assessed thoroughly for their fitness and risks.

What is required to begin training in professional boxing?

For anyone to start training in professional boxing they must have a commitment to fitness, discipline and an open mind. Initial training involves mastering the fundamentals, including stance, footwork, punches, and defensive techniques. It's imperative to join a reputable boxing gym with experienced trainers who understand the nuances of professional competition. To develop their skills, new boxers will undergo rigorous conditioning drills as well as sparring and technique drills.

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

In choosing a boxing instructor or coach, you should consider their experience, track record, coaching style compatibility, and understanding of technical and tactical aspects. A good coach will also stress safety, conditioning and personal growth. To reach your boxing potential, you need a coach who is able to motivate and communicate well.

Statistics

An analysis of boxing injuries suggests that 90% involve the head, neck, and face, emphasizing the importance of protective gear.
Cardiovascular fitness is critical, with a focus on high intensity interval training, comprising up to 40% of a boxer's conditioning program.
Reports suggest that successful professional boxers can earn upwards of 50 times more than the median purse for entry-level professionals per fight.
On average, a professional boxer spars between 100 to 200 rounds in preparation for a major fight.
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.
Around 60% of professional boxers supplement their income with other activities or jobs, due to variability in fight earnings.

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How To

How to land your first professional boxing fight

You will need a combination training, networking and marketing to get your first professional boxing match. To gain attention, you need to build a strong amateur resume. Make connections with trainers, gym owners and promoters to find out about opportunities. To build your brand, create promotional material such as a highlight video of your fights and keep an active presence on social media. Finally, stay ready to fight at all times, so when an opportunity arises, you can take it without hesitation.