Boxing has a celebrated past in Britain and Ireland, with champion fighters who have made an unforgettable impact on the sport. From thrilling knockouts to vicious rivalries, boxers from Britain and Ireland have enthralled audiences across the globe.
Boxing holds roots in both Britain and Ireland with evidence pointing to its existence for centuries. The first recorded boxing match in Britain occurred during the century while in Ireland it has been ingrained within their culture for an even longer period. Over time, both countries have witnessed a surge in popularity for boxing along with a solid fan base and a strong tradition of producing fighters.
British boxers, ranging from the likes of Lennox Lewis and Anthony Joshua in the heavyweight division to middleweights such as Chris Eubank and Nigel Benn, have consistently left their mark on the sport. Not only have they dominated domestically, but they have also achieved remarkable success on the global stage by clinching numerous world titles and earning immense respect from their fellow fighters.
Ireland too boasts a legacy of producing boxers. From the hard-hitting Barry McGuigan to the middleweight Steve Collins, Irish boxers have made an indelible impact on the sport. Their incredible skill, unwavering determination and sheer heart have garnered admiration from fans worldwide. In addition to bringing glory to their country as boxing champions, they have acted as a source of inspiration for generations of fighters.
The most recent Active People Survey (APS) shows that boxing has enjoyed an increase of just under 30,000 people in the past six months. As one of the most inclusive and accessible sports, it was no surprise that more people are taking part in boxing, and boxing has also seen a rise in the number of participants from socially deprived areas.
In this article, we will explore the history of boxing in these countries, delve into the top 15 British and Irish boxers of all time, analyse their influence on the sport, highlight memorable fights, and also take a glimpse into the future of boxing with upcoming talents. So get ready to put on your gloves as we step into the ring with some of the greatest boxing fighters ever.
1. Joe Calzaghe
The Welshman competed from 1993 to 2008. He is a two-weight world champion, having been able to defend the unified WBA (Super), WBC, IBF, WBO, Ring magazine and lineal super-middleweight titles, as well as the Ring light-heavyweight title. Calzaghe is the longest-reigning super-middleweight world champion in boxing history.
He retired with the longest continual time as world champion of any active fighter.
Between 2006 and 2008, Calzaghe was rated by The Ring as one of the world's top ten boxers, pound for pound, reaching a peak ranking of third in January 2009. He retired in February 2009 with an undefeated record and as a reigning world champion.
Calzaghe was often referred to as the "Pride of Wales" or the "Italian Dragon", the latter being a play on the moniker "Italian Stallion" and a reference to his multiple heritages (the dragon being both a prominent Welsh emblem that appears on the Welsh flag and a figure in Sardinian myth).
In 2007, Calzaghe became BBC Sports Personality of the Year, gaining 28.19% of the public vote. This made Calzaghe the first Welsh winner of this award since showjumper David Broome in 1960. He was awarded the Young Boxer of the Year Award in 1995. Calzaghe was inducted into the International Boxing International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014.
He has definitely written a chapter in the great history of boxing.
2. Tyson Fury
When it comes to the realm of boxing, Tyson Fury, known as 'The Gypsy King', stands out as a shining star. Originating from the United Kingdom, Fury has etched his name into the history books of boxing through his talent, captivating personality, and an indomitable spirit that has propelled him to the top of the sport.
His brilliance inside the ring emanates from a captivating blend of size, speed and skill. Standing at an imposing height of 6 feet 9 inches, he possesses a commanding presence. However, what truly distinguishes him is his agility and elusiveness. Qualities rarely seen in fighters. His impressive footwork, mastery and adeptness at switching stances make him an intimidating adversary in the circle.
Fury’s brilliance extends beyond his boxing prowess. He is a showman both within and outside of the ring; enchanting fans with his larger-than-life personality and vibrant antics. His magnetic charisma has transcended boxing itself, establishing him as a sports icon.
Tyson Fury’s brilliance encompasses more than his skills in boxing; it serves as a testament to the resilience and power of the spirit. His journey from despair to triumph stands as an inspiration for many.
3. Lennox Lewis
Lennox Claudius Lewis competed from 1989 to 2003. He is a three-time world heavyweight champion, a two-time lineal champion, and remains the last heavyweight to hold the undisputed title.
Holding dual British and Canadian citizenship, Lewis represented Canada as an amateur at the 1988 Summer Olympics, winning a gold medal in the super-heavyweight division after defeating future world champion Riddick Bowe in the final.
In his first three years as a professional, Lewis won several regional heavyweight championships, including the European, British, and Commonwealth titles.
Lewis won the lineal title by defeating Shannon Briggs in 1998. Two fights against Evander Holyfield in 1999 (the first of which ended in a controversial draw) saw Lewis become the undisputed heavyweight champion.
In 2002, Lewis defeated Mike Tyson in one of the most highly anticipated fights in boxing history. In what would be his final fight, in 2003, Lewis defeated Vitali Klitschko in a bloody encounter. He retired from boxing in 2004.
He is regarded by many as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time, and also one of the greatest British fighters of all time. He has the 4th longest combined title streak in modern boxing history at 15 title bouts. In 1999 he was named Fighter of the Year by the Boxing Writers Association of America, and BBC Sports Personality of the Year.
4. Ken Buchanan
Ken Buchanan is a British retired professional boxer and the former Undisputed World Lightweight Champion from Edinburgh.
Buchanan travelled to Puerto Rico, where he met Ismael Laguna, the world lightweight champion from Panama, on 26 September 1970. He beat Laguna by a 15-round decision to become the world's Lightweight champion. At that time, the WBA and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC), were in the middle of a feud, and Buchanan was not allowed to fight in Scotland.
Buchanan had to resort to fighting overseas for a short period of time. He finished in 1970, beating Donato Paduano by a 10-round decision in a non-title bout.
Buchanan defeated Rubén Navarro in Los Angeles on 12 February 1971, defended the WBA championship, and acquired the vacant WBC championship.
He then became the Undisputed World Lightweight Champion.
A good example to inspire you to start learning to box! Hold up Buchanan's legacy and take boxing classes in Glasgow or Edinburgh.
5. Jack Dempsey
Born in Ireland but fighting under the American flag, Jack Dempsey is regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight champions in history. Known for his aggressive style and powerful punches, Dempsey captivated audiences with his thrilling fights.
Dempsey's rise to fame during the 1920s coincided with a key period in boxing. He emerged as a figure during the Roaring Twenties, an era marked by societal changes, cultural shifts and unforgettable boxing matches. What set Dempsey apart was his hard-hitting style perfectly embodying the spirit of that time. His captivating performances made him one of the boxers of his generation.
His brilliance lay in his punching power and unwavering fearlessness in every fight. Despite being smaller than many of his opponents at 6 feet and around 190 pounds, he compensated with unmatched ferocity and relentless attacks, establishing himself as a formidable force inside the ring.
Beyond his fighting spirit, Dempsey's Irish heritage shone through not only in his persona but also in his wit and humour outside of boxing. His magnetic personality endeared him to fans worldwide.
Jack Dempsey transcended borders with his greatness, becoming a source of pride for the people and an iconic figure in the realm of boxing. His legacy continues to resonate within the hearts of boxing enthusiasts and those who appreciate the artistry behind this sport.
6. Barry McGuigan
Finbar Patrick 'Barry' McGuigan is an Irish retired professional boxer and current boxing promoter. Born in Clones, County Monaghan, Ireland, McGuigan was nicknamed The Clones Cyclone and became the WBA and lineal featherweight world champion.
He was very popular with Irish and British audiences, representing neutrality and peace in a time when Northern Ireland, where he lived, was divided by The Troubles. In 2005, he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
A national hero in Ireland, Barry McGuigan achieved great success in the featherweight division. His entertaining style and charismatic personality made him a beloved figure in the sport.
If you are to walk into any boxing club across the Emerald Isle, you will likely hear the name Barry McGuigan mentioned in great admiration.
McGuigan is one of the most celebrated boxers in the country and his photos can be seen hanging on the walls of countless boxing gyms.
His decorated career and boxing legacy have cemented his name in this list of both British boxers and Irish boxers. He is certainly a tough candidate to knock off this list.
On top of his career inside of the ring, he also founded and is the current president of, the Professional Boxing Association (PBA).
7. Lloyd Honeyghan
Lloyd Honeyghan is a British former professional boxer who competed from 1980 to 1995.
He reigned as the undisputed welterweight champion from 1986 to 1987 and held the WBC, Ring magazine, and lineal welterweight titles twice between 1986 and 1989.
At the regional level, he held the European, British, and Commonwealth welterweight titles between 1983 and 1985, as well as the Commonwealth light-middleweight title from 1993 to 1994.
Remember to choose a great pair of boxing gloves before attempting to take on a champion.
8. Katie Taylor
Katie Taylor's incredible talent goes beyond the awards and titles she has earned; it speaks to her commitment, skill and influences, both inside and outside the boxing ring. Since she first put on her gloves, Taylor has been a force.
Her path to becoming a boxing legend started at a young age.
Taylor emerged as the Olympic lightweight champion, displaying her extraordinary skill and determination. This historic triumph not only solidified her status as a national figure in Ireland, but also captured the hearts of boxing enthusiasts worldwide.
With a record and a collection of world titles in different weight categories, Katie Taylors' brilliance knows no limits. Her unmatched speed, precise footwork and remarkable ring intelligence make her a true expert inside the circle. Each match is evidence of her boxing brilliance, leaving spectators amazed by her mastery.
She serves as an example of perseverance, resilience and the unbeatable spirit that characterises athletes. Katie Taylor's brilliance isn't just a source of pride for Ireland; it serves as inspiration for aspiring athletes while demonstrating the power of overcoming all obstacles.
9. Ricky Hatton
Richard John Hatton is a British former professional boxer who competed from 1997 to 2012 and has since worked as a boxing promoter and trainer. During his boxing career, he held multiple world championships at light welterweight and one at welterweight.
Hatton is ranked by BoxRec as the best British light welterweight of all time, the third-best in Europe, and the eleventh-best worldwide. In 2005, he was named Fighter of the Year by The Ring magazine, the Boxing Writers Association of America, and ESPN.
Hatton reached the pinnacle of his career in 2005 when he defeated Kostya Tszyu for the IBF, Ring, and lineal light-welterweight titles. This was followed up later that year with a victory over Carlos Maussa to claim the WBA (Super) light-welterweight title, thereby becoming a unified world champion.
Hatton suffered his first defeat in his career against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in an attempt to win the WBC, Ring, and lineal welterweight titles.
Hatton has been lauded as one of the most beloved and popular British boxers of all time, with a raucous fanbase that travelled tens of thousands across the Atlantic to support him.
Search for "boxing classes near me" and learn to box like Hatton.
10. Carl Frampton
A two-weight world champion, Carl Frampton has achieved great success in the super bantamweight and featherweight divisions. His victories over top opponents have solidified his place as one of Ireland's best boxers.
Few names in the boxing world generate as much excitement and admiration as Carl Frampton, affectionately known as 'The Jackal'. This Irish boxer from Belfast has built a reputation for himself as one of the most accomplished fighters of his generation.
Frampton’s skills truly shine inside the ring, where he demonstrates speed, precision and a sharp boxing intellect. What sets him apart is his ability to adapt his fighting style to suit each opponent he faces, showcasing versatility in a sport that demands it. Throughout his career, he has earned accolades including world titles in two weight divisions, a testament to his extraordinary abilities.
But it's not just Frampton's skill that distinguishes him; it's also his determination and resilience. He faced challenges on his journey to the top, confronting them head-on with the spirit of a champion. His epic battles against top-notch opponents have become stories and have endeared him to fans within boxing circles.
Carl Frampton’s brilliance extends beyond victories and championships; it can be seen in the lasting impact he has made on boxing. His unwavering dedication to his craft, combined with an enthralling fighting style has made him an adored figure on both sides of the Irish Sea. Frampton's achievements will forever be remembered as a shining example, in the legacy of boxing.
11. John Conteh
John Anthony Conteh is a British former professional boxer who competed from 1971 to 1980.
He held multiple light-heavyweight championships, including the WBC title from 1974 to 1978, and the European, British, and Commonwealth titles between 1973 and 1974. Conteh was awarded an MBE in 2017 for services to boxing at the Queen's Birthday Honours.
To give you inspiration, the greatest boxers have more than a single trick up their sleeve or in the bag! They also have some brilliant quotes to sway you with!
12. Michael Conlan
When it comes to discussing the talent of boxers, one name that truly stands out is Michael Conlan. He is an example of someone who possesses skill, unwavering dedication, and an intense competitive spirit. From Belfast in Northern Ireland, Conlan has left a mark on the boxing world.
Conlan’s brilliance is evident in both his amateur and professional career. His journey to recognition began during the 2012 London Olympics when he proudly represented Ireland and secured a deserved bronze medal in the bantamweight division. Throughout this tournament, he showcased his extraordinary abilities, technical finesse and strategic boxing intelligence.
As he transitioned into the ranks, Conlan continued to shine with brilliance. He swiftly built a reputation as an accomplished fighter by maintaining a formidable record early on in his career. His ability to adapt to opponents and styles serves as a testament to his understanding of the sport.
Beyond being a boxer, the fighter is also known for his charismatic personality and remarkable connection with fans. His unwavering pride in his heritage, coupled with his commitment to giving back to the community, have made him beloved not only in Ireland but across the entire world.
13. Chris Eubank
Christopher Livingstone Eubanks, known as Chris Eubank, is a British former professional boxer who competed from 1985 to 1998.
He held the WBO middleweight and super-middleweight titles and is ranked by BoxRec as the third-best British super-middleweight boxer of all time.
He reigned as world champion for over five years, was undefeated in his first ten years as a professional, and remained undefeated at middleweight. His world title contests against fellow Britons Nigel Benn and Michael Watson helped British boxing ride to a peak of popularity in the 1990s, with Eubank's eccentric personality making him one of the most recognisable celebrities of the period.
Eubank is credited for his bravery in the ring, in which he was able to take considerable amounts of punishment from power punchers en route to his victories and defeats, and for this, he is said to have a 'granite chin'.
14. Nigel Benn
Nigel Gregory Benn is a British former professional boxer who competed from 1987 to 1996.
He is a two-weight world champion, having held the WBO middleweight title in 1990, and the WBC super-middleweight title from 1992 to 1996. Additionally, he held the Commonwealth middleweight title from 1988 to 1989.
Nicknamed 'The Dark Destroyer' for his formidable punching power and aggressive fighting style, Benn is ranked by BoxRec as the fourth-best British super-middleweight boxer of all time.
He was a fierce and relentless fighter who possessed devastating knockout power, often overwhelming opponents with his aggressive approach.
Benn's epic battles in the middleweight and super-middleweight divisions, particularly against Chris Eubank, have become iconic moments in British boxing. His unyielding spirit, ferocity, and memorable victories make Nigel Benn a legendary figure in the world of boxing.
15. Naseem Hamed
Naseem Hamed, commonly known as 'Prince Naseem' or 'Naz', is a British former professional boxer who competed from 1992 to 2002.
He held multiple world championships at featherweight, including the WBO title from 1995 to 2000, the IBF title in 1997, and the WBC title from 1999 to 2000.
He also reigned as lineal champion from 1998 to 2001, IBO champion from 2002 to 2003, and held the European bantamweight title from 1994 to 1995. Hamed is ranked as the third-best British featherweight boxer of all time by BoxRec
In 2015 he was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
For more inspiration, do not hesitate to watch the best boxing movies!
The Impact of British and Irish Boxers on the Sport
British and Irish fighters have made a mark on the world of boxing, bringing not only pride to their nations but also serving as an inspiration for countless individuals to pursue the sport.
Their unwavering dedication, strong resolve and impressive abilities have set a standard of excellence in boxing. They have proven that with work and perseverance, one can achieve anything. This influence is evident in the growing popularity of boxing as more and more people are drawn to the sport through the stories of these champions.
Over time British and Irish boxers have been involved in some fights that will forever be etched in boxing history. From the battles between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier to the rivalry between Chris Eubank and Nigel Benn, these matchups have captivated audiences worldwide while leaving a profound impact on the sport itself. These memorable encounters have showcased not only skill but also unmatched determination from these fighters, taking boxing to new heights.
As we witness the evolution of boxing as a sport, a new generation of fighters from Britain and Ireland is emerging onto the scene. These young boxers possess skill sets coupled with determination and great potential; they have what it takes to become future champions. From promising contenders like Daniel Dubois to rising stars such as Michael Conlan, there is no doubt that the future of boxing shines ahead.
Undoubtedly as these fighters continue to develop their skills and gain experience, they will leave a lasting impact on the sport, upholding the tradition of boxing in Britain and Ireland. The legacy of Irish boxing is unquestionable.
Throughout history, these fighters have captivated fans worldwide, earning their admiration and becoming an inspiration for generations of fighters. Their talent, determination and bravery have left an indelible impression on the sport.
From figures of the past to the emerging stars of today, British and Irish boxers have often reigned supreme in the ring while shaping the future of boxing. Let us celebrate their accomplishments and eagerly anticipate the wave of champions who will carry forth this legacy. See here 10 great reasons to learn to box.
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
