WE NEED AN INDEPENDENT BODY
IT'S worth revisiting the Editor's Letter from the February 9 issue of Boxing News in light of the WBC'S recent ruling on Conor Benn.
The editor points out that nobody, whether sanctioning or governing body, seems to be putting in the work when it comes to proving boxers who failed tests are guilty. Instead, the powers that be are going above and beyond to prove innocence. But why?
What it highlights is the need for an independent drug-testing ageny, one who is not at fear of being financially crippled in a legal court, to manage these procedures from start to finish.
As a fan of 20-plus years, I am finding it increasingly hard to believe that all these failed tests are unfortunate accidents or mistakes.
It seems to me that, if you have enough cash, it's not difficult to concoct an excuse and get away with it. Something has to be done before the sport is deemed unfit for purpose.
Jack Weaver
WHO SUPPLIED THE EGGS?
I HOPE in the coming weeks that it comes to light where Conor Benn was buying his eggs, or egg-white supplements, because it might be handy to let other athletes know so they don't make the same mistake, particularly considering eggs are a staple part of many athletes' diet. Alexander Park
LESSONS FROM FURY-PAUL
LOOKING at how much coverage the Jake Paul V Tommy Fury match garnered in the world press, it underlines the importance for current boxers to have a solid presence on social media. Two novice boxers competing over an eightround distance earned millions of dollars.
Both Jake and Tommy have clearly demonstrated the need to market yourself correctly. Sure, there are far more deserving boxers and champions out there, yet in 2023 it's not what you deserve, it's how you present yourself to the world outside the ring, particularly if you lack the talent of the very best.
Do I agree that this is fair to boxers?
Absolutely not, yet you have to accept it is now part of the fight sport landscape and every professional should invest in their financial security by getting active on social channels. Did I buy the PPV? No, but at some point I will seek out the content. Why? Because Paul and Fury created an interest for me.
Mike Hills
TOP CLASS FROM LENNOX LEWIS
IT was a such a pleasure to read your in-depth and exclusive interview with Lennox Lewis (February 23 Issue).
Two aspects in particular struck me. First, this highly intelligent master boxer’s determination and courage to fight the best of the best, avoiding no one.
Second, his charmingly modest reply to Declan Washington’s question, “Where do you rank among the all-time great heavyweights?” “In the same room, I’m in the same room with them.”
That response alone raises Lewis one place in the pecking order.
Gavin Littaur