TALENTED: Buatsi has the potential to go far in the sport
Photo: ACTION IMAGES/PETER CZIBORRA
JUST wanted to share a quick story. One of my best friends, who is a big boxing fan, sadly has terminal cancer. Through a work contact, I was put in touch with Jackie Dardis at Joe Gallagher’s gym, about going to visit the gym to watch his fighters train and meet them. Jackie couldn’t have been more helpful in arranging this with Joe. On the day, Jackie, Joe and his stable of fighters couldn’t have been more welcoming. We got to watch Liam Smith, Anthony Crolla, Jazza Dickens, Frankie Gavin and Natasha Jonas all spar, as well as watching Paul Butler, Hosea Burton and Callum Smith train. This offered a real insight into how a top gym with world-class boxers operates. Everyone took the time to say hello, with Callum bringing in his World Boxing Super Series Muhammad Ali Trophy, as well as his WBA super-middleweight belt, so my friend and I could pose for pictures with them. They also provided my friend with a boxing glove, signed by everyone at the gym. A special shout-out to Paul Smith – a really funny guy – who was helping Callum train, and Frankie Gavin, for offering a free one-on-one tutorial for my friend’s son, who boxes. This gave my friend a much-needed boost in the biggest fight of his life. I just wanted to highlight the great people who are involved in this sport that we love. I firmly believe that no other sport in the world compares. Thanks again to Joe, Jackie and all the fighters. Liam Evans
WEAK ENFORCEMENT