In her latest novel, Beautiful World, Where Are You, Sally Rooney, an Irish author, reflects on the challenges of fame with her protagonist expressing discontent with the intrusive nature of public attention. Rooney delves into the psychological toll of seeking fame and questions the societal glorification of individuals who crave it.
This sentiment resurfaced while watching the BBC documentary Stable: The Boxing Game, where Barry McGuigan candidly discusses fame as a drug, drawing parallels to Rooney’s observations on the subject. Both Rooney and McGuigan navigate the complexities of fame thrust upon them unexpectedly, highlighting the pitfalls and loneliness that accompany such public recognition.
The documentary sheds light on the life of young boxer Adam Azim, who grapples with the increasing scrutiny and attention that come with his burgeoning career. Azim recognizes the perils of fame and vows to handle it responsibly, echoing the cautionary tales shared by experienced figures like McGuigan.
Dedicated: Azim in the gym with his trainer, Shane McGuigan (Boxxer/Lawrence Lustig)
The allure of fame poses a unique challenge for young boxers like Azim, who navigate the treacherous waters of public adulation and expectations. Trainers, like McGuigan, find themselves torn between nurturing their fighters’ success and shielding them from the corrosive effects of fame.
As boxing remains a solitary sport, boxers are often ill-equipped to handle the complexities of fame, seeking validation through their achievements rather than genuine connections with others. The insular nature of the sport reinforces a mindset of mistrust and self-inflation, making it difficult for boxers to navigate the pitfalls of fame.
Trainers like McGuigan play a pivotal role in guiding young boxers through the trappings of fame, offering both support and caution as they navigate the pressures of public recognition. The delicate balance between nurturing talent and preserving the boxer’s sense of self becomes increasingly challenging in a world where fame can distort one’s identity.
“You’ve seen all the hype around Adam, and now he’s going to be pushed towards being a pay-per-view star and a global star,” said Shane McGuigan. “I don’t think he’ll be able to walk down the street without getting stopped. But he’s 19 years of age (at the time of the documentary), so it’s down to me to slow everything down a fraction.”
In an era where fame is easily attainable and immensely influential, maintaining a sense of grounding and perspective becomes a crucial task for both boxers and their trainers. Navigating the trappings of fame requires resilience, self-awareness, and a steadfast commitment to staying true to oneself amidst the allure of public adoration.