In the ring, as in life, we often lose, but we must know how to handle it. The incredible story of British boxer Peter Buckley shows us that you need guts even to lose.
A demanding and lucrative career built on his defeats: 256, to be exact, with even 88 in a row. Compared to just 32 victories and 12 draws.
After losing his father, he turned to crime at the age of fifteen. But then boxing gave him a reason to live and saved him from ending up in prison. The gym became his second home. He started training continuously and made himself available at all times. Last-minute calls, replacements for any opponent, he never said no to anyone.
In October 1989, he turned professional. And at a certain point, he realized that losing would be more profitable. His physique was limited, but his endurance and ability to take punches were astonishing.
The simple bricklayer transformed into a boxing journeyman. From super featherweights to welterweights. One of those skilled workers who stands on the other side, the losing side. Those indispensable “human punching bags” to set up fights. He became famous for accepting bouts with no more than an hour’s notice.
As many as 42 future champions learned their craft with Peter ‘The Professor’ before going on to conquer titles. Among his best opponents: Duke McKenzie, Naseem Hamed, Acelino Freitas, Jason Cook, Paul Ingle, Patrick Mullings, Dean Pithie, Jason Booth, Michael Brodie, Scott Harrison, Michael Gomez, Johnny Bredahl, Gavin Rees, John Murray, Bradley Pryce, Derry Mathews, Lee Meager, Dave Stewart, Gary Woolcombe, Lee Selby, and Kell Brook.
It was a conscious choice, with the only condition being that there would always be a ring to welcome him. Defeated, but never a loser. Buckley always fought to the end, with only 8 of his losses coming by knockout, proving how tough he was. He displayed seriousness, discipline, sacrifice, and pride until the last moment.
His choice was one of courage, one that never allowed surrender in the face of anything. No one better than him can teach the art of staying on your feet, not just physically. How many have tasted the bitterness of defeat and found it hard to process, especially quickly?
In 2003, he was even awarded a medal for his tenacity. He made the front page of The Times when he decided to step down from the ring forever. Only because he had reached the age limit!
On October 31, 2008, in Birmingham, at the Aston Villa Leisure Centre, Peter closed his career in front of a large crowd of spectators. A testament to his well-earned reputation as a hero of the ropes, even if from the losing side.
He finished his 300th fight with a victory. After five consecutive years of losses, with an euphoric and authentic ovation from the crowd.
He descended those last steps with his head held high, his face streaked with visible emotion. The Professor took home the decisive victory, the one over his life filled with passion, built on what he loved most.
When there’s a will, there’s a way. To dare is to have.