THE MOMENTS THAT WE LOVE
THE stories, the build-ups, the big fights, the personalities. There are various reasons why boxing fans follow this sport. But then there are moments that make us realise how much we love it. No matter how long you have been a fan, there are still moments that leave you speechless, terrified, overjoyed or emotional. Whether it was Miguel Cotto staring at Antonio Margarito after getting his revenge (just one of my favourites), Frank Bruno finally achieving his dream or any other incredible moment that stands out to you personally, boxing has a way of providing us with something that very few sports can give. Tyson Fury’s rise from the grip of defeat has to be one of the most exceptional moments in boxing. I was almost as shocked as Deontay Wilder when I saw this. Yet another moment that will be looked back on with disbelief in years to come. Thank you, Tyson, for reminding us again why we love this game. Michael Coverley
THE NO. 1 REFEREE
I REALLY enjoyed reading the Q&A with Jack Reiss in the December 13 issue. I’ve always rated Reiss as one of the best referees anyway, but his performance in the Deontay Wilder-tyson Fury fight has now definitely put him at No. 1. Too many referees would’ve waved the fight off when Fury went down in the final round, which would’ve robbed us of one of the most iconic moments in boxing history. While the safety of the fighters must always remain paramount, Reiss didn’t panic and gave Fury the chance to prove he was fit to continue without compromising his safety. While it took all of Reiss’ elite-level experience to strike this fine balance, I do hope other referees the world over learn from Reiss in this instance, especially in title fights where everything is on the line. This is a moment that will be talked about 150 years from now, so imagine being robbed of that? Top marks to Reiss, who has now put himself at the front of the queue to referee the big fights in 2019. Scott Simpson
TRUE BOXING MAN
I AM writing to say how sad I am to hear that Brian Hughes is in poor health. I had the privilege to be in Brian’s company on a couple of occasions almost 20 years ago. As a member of a local amateur club, I have fond memories of the Collyhurst and Moston gym where our club sparred with various other clubs on a Sunday afternoon. Brian was a real gentleman and understood how we would be feeling and a had a way of taking away our nervousness. I also recall having a talk with him after he got back from the USA with Robin Reid, who lost out there to Jeff Lacy. Brian was convinced that Joe Calzaghe would beat Lacy convincingly – we should have all listened. It’s a credit to Brian that so many great young trainers started under his wing. John Maher
‘TERRIBLE’ TIM’S TALE
EVERY year I purchase the Boxing News
Annual. It is always a brilliant read. This year’s edition – 100 Greatest Heavyweight Boxers – was very good.
My favourite part was the article on “Terrible” Tim Witherspoon by Matt Bozeat. His piece on the former heavyweight champion was very interesting. Tim ended up a bitter man after years of getting short-changed by promoter Don King. Thankfully, he can laugh about it now. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all at the Boxing News
office, and to all the readers. Ian Owen