LEIGH WOOD refused to let a difference of three and a half pounds get in the way of his revenge against Mauricio Lara, who had previously defeated him in a heartbreaking match just a few months earlier. Some believed his team or the British Boxing Board of Control should have called off the match when the Mexican failed to make weight, but the decision was ultimately made to proceed with the fight after ensuring Lara had not gained too much weight overnight.
Chris Billam-Smith had a separate health scare before his match with Lawrence Okolie. Isaac Chamberlain was put on standby in case Billam-Smith was unable to fight. However, by the day of the weigh-in, Billam-Smith had recovered and the match went on. In boxing, fighters are known for their determination and will to fight regardless of any circumstances that may arise. Often, they take part in matches with greater risks involved than a simple weight difference.
In hindsight, allowing both Wood and Billam-Smith to fight was the right decision, as their careers have now reached new heights. They are an example of the incredible spirit and opportunities that boxing can offer. However, it is important to remember the inherent risks that boxing poses. Boxers often leave the ring with permanent injuries or even in comas, as seen with the case of Ludumo Lamati.
While boxers choose this dangerous profession, it is not our place as spectators to pass judgement on their decisions. Safety should always be a top priority for those in positions of power, even if it means momentarily dashing dreams or losing money. Ultimately, the decision to fight is up to the boxer themselves, and we must respect that.
We should celebrate the incredible achievements of Billam-Smith and Wood, but also acknowledge the risks and consequences that come with boxing. Without the fighters’ false sense of invincibility, the amazing stories of courage and perseverance would not exist. They remind us of the beauty and harsh reality of the sport.