Two Grown Men Almost Throw Down Over Boxing Rounds (And Yes, It's As Ridiculous As It Sounds)

By Lewis Barnett 28 August, 2025 4 mins read 228 Views

So here we are, three days before a fight, and Darren Till decides he wants to change the entire format. Classic.

I've been covering combat sports for years, and I thought I'd seen everything. But watching two former UFC stars nearly brawl at a press conference because one guy suddenly decided six rounds wasn't enough? That's new, even for me. Till and Rockhold were supposed to headline this Misfits Boxing event in Manchester over six rounds - you know, like they originally agreed to months ago.

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Thursday's press conference hadn't even officially started when security was already earning their paychecks. Before anyone could say a word on stage, Till and Rockhold were going at it like they were settling a bar tab dispute.

Poor security guys looked like they were trying to separate two drunk uncles at a wedding.

Then Till - because apparently the pre-fight chaos wasn't enough - starts screaming about rounds. "Why didn't you accept eight rounds and said you'll only fight me over six?" he yelled. Rockhold, who's 40 and probably wondering how he ended up in this mess, just shrugged and said "I said either one."

The Most Expensive Handshake in Boxing

Here's where it gets weird (or weirder). Till calls him out: "No you never. Because if that's the truth let's make it eight rounds." And Rockhold, bless him, just agrees. "Make it eight rounds."

They shake hands like civilized human beings for exactly 2.3 seconds before breaking into another brawl.

But Till wasn't done with his ultimatum tour: "This fight's now eight rounds or I ain't fighting." Because nothing says professional athlete like changing the rules three days before showtime, right?

From Octagon to Circus Ring

The Liverpudlian has actually done well in Misfits Boxing - beat Anthony Taylor and Darren Stewart without much trouble. Rockhold, meanwhile, is making his boxing debut after hanging up his MMA gloves. Former UFC middleweight champ trying his hand at the sweet science for teh first time.

Then KSI - the YouTuber who somehow became a boxing promoter and is probably counting money while watching this trainwreck - decides to face off with both fighters.

Security earned overtime that day. Again.

Look, I get it. Pre-fight theatrics sell tickets and generate buzz. But when you're changing fundamental fight terms days before the event, you're either desperate for attention or genuinely unhinged. Maybe both? Either way, Manchester is going to get quite the show this weekend - assuming these two don't kill each other before the opening bell.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I start boxing?

You can start boxing at any time as long as your doctor has cleared you and you are in good physical health. Boxing has a wide range of adaptability and can be customized for individuals at all fitness levels and ages.

What should I focus on as a beginner in boxing?

As a beginning martial artist, your main focus should be to learn the proper form and techniques. This includes mastering the basic punches, establishing a strong defense, developing footwork, and improving your conditioning. Start slow, focus on technique rather than power, and consult a coach with experience.

What equipment am I required to start boxing?

To begin boxing, you require essential gear for safety and effective training. Boxing gloves are essential, as well as hand wraps for protecting your wrists and fingers, a protective mouthguard and a headgear when sparring. For better support and movement, it is recommended that you wear boxing shoes as well as comfortable athletic clothing.

Statistics

It is estimated that 60% of beginner boxers do not use the correct size gloves, which can increase the risk of injury.
Around 90% of boxers suffer a minor injury over the course of a year, with only 10-15% experiencing a moderate to severe injury.
Studies show that proper hand wrapping can reduce the chance of hand and wrist injuries by as much as 40%.
Studies suggest that about 30% of beginner boxers tend to neglect the importance of footwork in their initial training phase.
Nearly 95% of boxing trainers agree that mental conditioning is just as important as physical training for beginners in the sport.
Boxing has one of the lowest rates of injury compared to other contact sports, with approximately 1.1 injuries per 1,000 minutes of athletics.
Cardiovascular fitness improvements can be seen after just 12 weeks of consistent boxing training.
Beginner boxers tend to make the mistake of holding their breath in 70% of cases during their initial training sessions.
An analysis of boxing workouts demonstrates that participants can maintain a heart rate at 75-85% of their maximum, which is the optimal range for cardiovascular training.
On average, beginners who undergo proper boxing training can expect to burn anywhere from 300 to 500 calories per hour.

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How To

How to spar safely as a boxing beginner

Sparring should be approached carefully and always with the right protective gear, such as gloves, headgear, and mouthguard. Start sparring light and focus more on technique than power. Talk to your partner about the intensity level and use this opportunity to apply what has been learned through bag work, drills and other training. To ensure safety and immediate feedback, always have a qualified coach supervise sparring.