BRAVO, DAVE HARRIS
I WAS very impressed with Dave Harris’ Guest Column in the January 30 issue. I have known Dave for many years and have found him to be not just a great, loyal friend but a man of honour. I read with interest about his quest to build a residential home for ex-boxers. In reality it is badly and urgently needed and I am only too willing to support the cause. Knowing Dave as I do, he will never give up on his dream of establishing a secure place where our heroes can receive care and rest in dignity. Dave will see this through as the word ‘quit’ is not in this man’s vocabulary. I thank all who are supporting this venture, plus the charity’s ambassadors. I hope that some of our big-name boxers, promoters and managers get involved in this wonderful project too. Tommy Dix
SHOW YOUR SUPPORT
HAVING read Dave Harris’ Guest Column about Ringside Rest and Care ( January 30 issue), I have to say I’m disgusted, but not surprised, that the top promoters and high-profile boxers haven’t supported this most worthy cause yet. They should hang their heads in shame! As always, especially with the promoters, it’s all about earning money from pay-perviews etc. But when it comes to giving something back to the grassroots or worthy charities, they’re nowhere to be seen! Tim Boden
KICK IN THE TEETH
THE fact that a possible Deontay Wilder or Tyson Fury showdown with Anthony Joshua is even being considered for Saudi Arabia is a kick in the teeth for all true followers of our sport. Joshua built his following in London, not Riyadh. Those fans filled the O2 Arena and at the same time filled “AJ’S” bank account. We know that boxing is a money-driven sport, but don’t Joshua and his team feel any loyalty towards his fans? Through hard work and good management Joshua has hit the jackpot. But is money everything? Up-and-coming fighters may dream of headlining a bill at Wembley Stadium, Madison Square Garden or Las Vegas. I doubt if any have an ambition to headline in Saudi Arabia. The sad fact is that sport in a country with abysmal human rights is now acceptable. Joshua is abandoning the followers who supported him on the way up if he continues his career in Saudi. A disappointing public relations catastrophe is on the cards if this happens. Max Winberg Editor’s note: Joshua is insisting that his next bout, likely against Kubrat Pulev, will be in London.