Boxing is one of the oldest sports in history, with over 2,000 years of evolution in its various forms. Over time, it has progressively refined itself by introducing rules and benefiting from careful studies on athlete safety. Thanks to contributions from professional medical experts, every boxer can pursue their career with peace of mind, ensuring physical and psychological integrity while competing safely. Nevertheless, many myths and misconceptions about boxing still persist, tarnishing its reputation and discouraging some young people from stepping into the gym.
In this piece, drawing from my 31 years of experience, from childhood to the end of my professional career, I will address the most common misconceptions associated with the Sweet Science.
- Is it true that coaches break the noses of beginners?
Absolutely not! Coaches do not break their athletes’ noses. Unfortunately, a broken nose can happen during the development of a boxer, either during intense exchanges in preparation, sparring sessions, or, as happened to me personally, during a fight.
- Is it true that only violent people can succeed in boxing?
Not at all. Boxing does not require a violent nature but rather character, willpower, ambition, a sense of sacrifice, and creativity. Violence has no place in this sport. On the contrary, boxers need to be very balanced and respectful toward themselves and their opponents.
- Are European and world champions all on performance-enhancing drugs?
Absolutely not. Champions are just individuals who pursue their dreams with passion and determination, relying on their talent rather than doping. Anti-doping tests are carried out before fights and even during training, often through surprise inspections by a doctor appointed by the Federation. Additionally, after important matches, doctors conduct immediate anti-doping tests as soon as the fight concludes, often escorting fighters from the ring straight to the testing area.
- Do you have to hate your opponent to defeat them in the ring?
There’s no need to hate your opponent. Of course, a bit of anger is necessary—but just enough. What matters most is training, understanding all the nuances of boxing, and using tactical intelligence to highlight your own strengths.
- Do people who go to boxing gyms become violent in everyday life?
Those who train in boxing gyms are rarely violent or prone to aggression. On the contrary, boxing helps develop a sense of balance that allows you to control anger and aggression. Additionally, every coach teaches their fighters to never use what they’ve learned in the gym outside, except in situations of self-defense or protecting the vulnerable. In other words, only when absolutely necessary.
- Is boxing a sport unsuitable for women?
Boxing is suitable for everyone: boys, girls, men, women, children, and teens. Each group has its own tailored training methods. I especially encourage women to practice boxing because it’s excellent for self-defense and helps build confidence and self-esteem. For those wanting to go further, competitive boxing is always an option.
- Is it impossible to combine studying and boxing?
We need to dispel this myth that boxing and education can’t coexist. In some countries, boxing is even integrated into college programs, allowing students to earn credits! Moreover, a glance at history shows how many world champions over the last century were either college graduates or at least high school diploma holders. Today, as in the past, boxing doesn’t pull young people away from their studies—it just requires proper scheduling to balance both pursuits. Of course, much depends on parents and coaches, who must educate their students and understand their aspirations.
- Do punches hurt?
Yes, punches really hurt! There’s no need to sugarcoat it, and that’s precisely why you train constantly to dodge them!