A Lasting Legacy Beyond the Ropes
Boxing lost one of its true icons this week with the passing of Brendan Ingle at the age of 77. Tributes have poured in from across the sport, but none can fully capture the impact this one man had — not just on British boxing, but on the lives he shaped far beyond the ring.
Most people know Brendan as the legendary trainer behind fighters like Naseem Hamed, Johnny Nelson, Junior Witter and Herol Graham — but his story started long before the bright lights.
From Fighter to Father Figure
Born in Dublin but adopted by Sheffield, Brendan had a modest professional boxing career — 19 wins, 14 losses, and just 6 knockouts. But the numbers never told the full story.
After retiring, he turned to his local community. What began as a dance class to keep kids off the street quickly morphed into something more — a space for discipline, growth, and purpose. From that moment, Wincobank Gym was born.
A Style All His Own
Ingle’s training methods were as unique as the man himself. He prioritised movement, rhythm and defence — helping his fighters develop a fluid, evasive style that confused opponents and dazzled fans. It was the Ingle way: hands down, feet fast, always thinking.
This approach produced not just champions, but characters — boxers who could entertain as well as excel.
The Johnny Nelson Story
If you want to understand Brendan’s belief in people, look at Johnny Nelson. A fighter who lost his first three professional bouts — most would’ve cut him loose. Brendan stuck with him, moulded him, and helped him become WBO Cruiserweight World Champion.
Johnny has often said he owes everything to Brendan — and it speaks volumes that he never left his mentor’s hospital bedside in those final days.
Four World Champions, But Countless Success Stories
Brendan’s influence wasn’t just about belts and accolades — although there were plenty:
- 4 World Champions
- 6 European Champions
- 6 Commonwealth Champions
- 15 British Champions
But more importantly, he gave kids from Sheffield hope — and a future.
Honours That Could Never Match the Man
Ingle’s work earned him an MBE in 1998 and an honorary doctorate from Sheffield Hallam University. Fitting recognition — but still not enough to encapsulate his contribution to the sport and society.
A Final Farewell
Brendan Ingle didn’t just train fighters — he built people. He leaves behind a legacy rooted in belief, discipline and love. British boxing won’t be the same without him.
Rest easy, Brendan. You built more than champions — you built a movement.
Great blog for a great man very good tribute for some so well respected weldone Chris.