Boxing Training at Christmas — No Time Off for Fighters

Boxing Training at Christmas — No Time Off for Fighters

With the festive season in full swing, most of us are tucking into mince pies and putting our feet up. But for professional boxers, boxing training at Christmas means something very different — because the hard work never stops.

While other sports get Christmas fixtures or winter breaks, boxing carries on regardless. The next fight is always around the corner, and for many fighters, that means staying in shape through December.

Tony Bellew’s Approach: Earn Your Treats

Tony Bellew is a prime example. With his rematch against David Haye set for 5 May next year, Bellew has already started his training to get ahead of schedule. Speaking recently, he said he’s putting in the hard graft now so he can enjoy Christmas dinner with his family.

Of course, being at heavyweight helps — the pressure to make weight isn’t as severe. But the work still needs to be done.

For Groves and Eubank Jr., It’s All Business

It’s a different story for fighters like George Groves and Chris Eubank Jr., who meet on 17 February in the World Boxing Super Series semi-final. Both need to make the super middleweight limit, and both are likely to be training right through Christmas — even on the big day itself.

There’s no room for cheat meals when a world title is on the line. While the rest of us are reaching for a second helping, these lads are counting calories.

Boxing: A 365-Day Commitment

That’s the truth about boxing. Even when there’s no date set, fighters can’t afford to let things slide. You never know when the phone’s going to ring with an offer. Staying close to fighting shape is part of the job.

It’s not just about food, either — fighters are in the gym, on the track, or in the ring, when everyone else is winding down.

A Tough Job with Little Glory

Nobody’s saying it’s the hardest job over Christmas — nurses, doctors, and emergency workers shoulder real responsibilities this time of year. But for boxers, the holidays can be especially lonely.

The life of a fighter is built around discipline, and boxing training at Christmas is just another reminder of that. It’s a sacrifice most people never see — but it’s what separates the contenders from the crowd.

Final Word

So while the rest of us enjoy our roasties and a nap in front of the telly, spare a thought for the boxers skipping dessert and heading to the gym. Come fight night, every bit of discipline will show.

My next post will be live on 4 January — and I’ll be counting down the Best Fights of 2017. Until then, have a brilliant Christmas and a Happy New Year!