The boxing talk of the last week has all been about those farcical scenes between Haye and Chisora.
Amateur boxing fans hope that the incident does not affect people’s view of their sport.
Tonight saw a cracking amateur show at Pontnewydd workingmen’s club in Cwmbran. The crowd enjoyed 11 bouts for the bargain price of £10 for adults and £5 for children.
I know many of the boys who fought tonight. Critics of the sport need to spend a few hours in a gym to see the dedication that goes in to preparing each fight. It has to be seen to be believed.
This is grassroots sport at its best. The sport is held together on a shoestring. A volunteer went around flogging raffle tickets for a quid.
Volunteers run amateur boxing and keep 10,000s of youngsters off the streets and doing something positive.
Boxing keeps you fit and healthy and teaches you respect. There were no punches thrown after the final bell.
The competitors shake hands and get together for a photo.
A guy sat next to me tonight saw an amateur bout last week where the winner actually felt he lost. After he stepped out of the ring he handed his trophy to his opponent and said ‘you won that mate’.
In amateur boxing you have a medical check before each bout. Any colds, sore throats or anything that means you are not 100% will see the bout called off. The health of the boxers is a top priority for the coaches, referee and doctor at ringside.
Here are some pics from tonight’s.show.
