With anticipation building for one of British boxing’s biggest nights, the grassroots took centre stage this week as young boxers and coaches from Sported community programmes joined the Eubank Jr v Benn II public workout.

As part of organisers Sela’s commitment to championing grassroots sport, one-hundred young boxers and their coaches from Sported-affiliated clubs across the UK have been invited to attend Saturday’s fight, which is a Sela event.

The initiative builds on Sela’s collaboration with Sported to highlight the power of community sport and its role in shaping future champions.

Representing clubs in Brighton and London – the hometowns of Eubank Jr and Benn – selected boxers and coaches met the fighters and spoke to media during Wednesday’s public workout, sharing how boxing has made a difference in their lives and communities.

Through Sported’s nationwide network, these community boxing clubs harness the power of sport to engage young people, build resilience, and create positive pathways both inside and outside the ring.

Sarah Kaye, CEO of Sported, said: “Boxing clubs don’t just create champions and medallists. They are heavyweights in transforming lives for the better, especially in areas of deprivation and in under-served communities. These organisations create huge social impact by opening doors to opportunity as well as addressing crime, boosting education, and closing the attainment gap. That work often goes unrecognised. So, we’re pleased to partner with Sela to give back to the local heroes who make such a difference.”

Logan Dore, a young amateur boxer from Brighton & Hove boxing club, said: “Boxing has given me more confidence, in and out of the ring. So, it’s great to see grassroots clubs being recognised for the positive impact they have on kids like me. I can’t believe we get to go to such a big fight – it’s really exciting.” 

This initiative highlights the shared belief between Sela and Sported in recognising and celebrating the vital role grassroots boxing plays in communities across the UK.

“Grassroots boxing clubs play a vital role in communities across the UK, offering young people a safe and supportive space to learn discipline, respect, and teamwork,” Stewart Hosford, CEO – International at Sela, said.

“We’re incredibly proud to work with Sported to shine a light on the coaches and athletes who make such a difference every day. Giving them a chance to experience a world-class event like Eubank Jr v Benn II is an inspiring reminder of where sport can take you – from local gyms to the global stage.”