Boxing is one of the toughest sports on the planet. Fighters put their bodies—and sometimes their lives—on the line every time they step into the ring. Yet, despite the blood, sweat, and tears, many boxers retire with little financial security, no safety net, and often, serious health issues. While some fighters earn millions, most don’t, and even those who do can find themselves struggling once their careers are over. That’s where Ringside Charitable Trust comes in, fighting for the fighters who once entertained us.
The Harsh Reality for Retired Boxers
Unlike other major sports where athletes receive pensions or long-term health care, boxing doesn’t offer much support to its veterans. Fighters who didn’t make it to the top tier, or those who suffered career-ending injuries, often find themselves struggling financially and physically.
Brain injuries, neurological disorders, and long-term health issues are all too common among ex-boxers. And while the biggest names in the sport might have the means to seek medical treatment, what about the countless others who don’t?
That’s exactly why Dave Harris and his team at Ringside Charitable Trust have made it their mission to provide retired and injured fighters with the care and support they desperately need.
Ringside Charitable Trust: Fighting for the Forgotten Fighters
Founded by Dave Harris, Ringside Charitable Trust is dedicated to supporting ex-boxers who are struggling with financial difficulties, health problems, or simply need a helping hand. The charity provides essential services, from funding medical treatment to offering housing support for those in need.
Harris has been vocal about the lack of a structured welfare system in boxing, highlighting how some former champions and ring warriors have been left with nothing after giving their all to the sport. Ringside Charitable Trust is working towards opening a dedicated residential home for ex-boxers, a much-needed facility that would provide medical care, rehabilitation, and emotional support for fighters who have nowhere else to turn.
You can learn more about the trust’s efforts by visiting their website, I tried to add this as a link but it kept breaking so you might be better off Google it
The Tragic Case of John Cooney & Why More Support is Needed
The recent passing of John Cooney has once again put a spotlight on the lack of support for boxers after their careers end. Cooney tragically collapsed in the ring during a bout and later passed away due to his injuries. His death is a heartbreaking reminder of the risks fighters take every time they compete.
Despite dedicating his life to the sport, Cooney, like many other fighters, faced challenges in securing financial and medical support post-career. His case is, sadly, not unique. Many boxers who suffer life-altering injuries in the ring struggle to access the necessary resources to recover or manage their conditions.
In tragic situations like these, Ringside Charitable Trust steps in to help. The charity also supports the families of fighters who have passed away, ensuring that their loved ones don’t have to suffer alone. The boxing community can and should do more to protect its own, but charities like Ringside Charitable Trust are currently the lifeline for many ex-fighters and their families.
The Boxing Community Must Do More
While Ringside Charitable Trust is doing fantastic work, more needs to be done. Boxing generates millions, yet too many fighters are left with nothing once they step out of the ring for the final time. Other sports have structured support systems in place—why not boxing?
Promoters, governing bodies, and broadcasters must take responsibility. Whether it’s introducing pension schemes for fighters, providing better post-career medical support, or ensuring retired boxers have access to mental health services, the sport must start looking after its own.
Want to see more about how Ringside Charitable Trust is making a difference? Again you can do this by this in the website. I apologise once again I tried to add this as a link and it kept breaking but if you type it into Google ringside charitable trust you should be able to find it.
How You Can Help
If you’re passionate about boxing and believe that retired fighters deserve better, there are ways you can help:
- Donate to Ringside Charitable Trust
- Raise awareness by sharing their message on social media
- Support fundraisers and events aimed at helping retired fighters
Every little bit helps, and the more people who get involved, the more we can push for real change in the sport.
What Do You Think?
Boxing is a brutal but beautiful sport, and it’s time we start taking care of those who have sacrificed so much for it. What are your thoughts on the financial struggles faced by retired fighters? Should boxing governing bodies do more?
Drop a comment below, share this post, and let’s get people talking! And if you want to stay updated on all things boxing, head over to CMBoxing.co.uk for the latest news, analysis, and opinion pieces.
Let’s fight for those who once fought for us