In a fervent and impassioned plea, boxing promoter Eddie Hearn is taking a powerful stand to rally the government towards a cause that strikes at the very heart of communities across the nation. With the fervor that has defined his career, representing former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua, Hearn passionately champions the cause of grassroots sport, igniting a fire within to protect amateur clubs struggling for survival.
Hearn’s voice resonates with urgency as he speaks of the dire state of these clubs, ones that serve as vital pillars within our communities. “It really baffles me and worries me when I see clubs that are so pivotal to the community closing down,” he exclaims, a genuine concern etched on his face.
His determination to leave a lasting “legacy” that makes a tangible difference at the local level is unmistakable. In his eyes, sports, particularly boxing, hold the power to transform the lives of the younger generation, a generation grappling with formidable challenges. “The things you need in life to progress – to be resilient, to be hard-working, respect, manners, discipline, physical health, mental health, individuality, confidence – all these things, sport can bring you,” he asserts with unwavering conviction.
With each word, Hearn paints a vivid picture of the dire consequences of these clubs shutting their doors. “These clubs are changing people’s lives,” he insists, his voice a clarion call. “They are bringing positivity to young people, they are keeping them off the streets, they are keeping them away from knife crime.”
Hearn, the driving force behind Matchroom Sport, is deeply grateful for the support his local amateur club receives from the borough council. But he is acutely aware that this level of appreciation is not universal. He yearns for a day when local authorities and the government truly grasp the vital role these clubs play.
Passion and action go hand in hand for Eddie Hearn. Recently, he didn’t hesitate to contribute £10,000 to an amateur club in Camberwell, South London, when he learned it was on the brink of closure due to mounting costs. His commitment to this cause is resolute as he asserts, “For me, I need to be speaking to and dealing with people at the government level to make them realize, instead of building a statue somewhere – let’s invest that into community clubs and give kids somewhere to be and some positivity away from their phone.”
In response to the question of whether he’d be willing to engage with the government, his answer is emphatic: “Absolutely.” Hearn’s love for the sport and his burning desire to leave a legacy of positive change within the community are evident in every word he utters.
He doesn’t mince words when addressing the grave issues of gang and knife crime, insisting that while sport isn’t the sole solution, it undoubtedly plays a pivotal role. “If it will help, why aren’t we doing it?” he challenges, as he sets his sights on convincing those in power to take action.
In a poignant and separate reflection, Hearn expresses his profound love for Essex, a place he considers special and dear to his heart. He reveals that despite the allure of grand cities like New York or Los Angeles, he remains steadfastly rooted in his hometown, a true “homeboy.”
As Hearn speaks at his company’s summer garden party, his words echo with an unwavering commitment to making a difference, not only through great fights but by championing the cause of community clubs. In his quest to secure a brighter future for the youth and to tackle the pressing issues plaguing society, Eddie Hearn stands as a passionate advocate, ready to ignite change.
