Knockout Reads: 10 Books About Boxing That Pack a Punch

This article provides readers with the best boxing books. The information could help fighters, beginners, and fans in the boxing community. The books describe the training method and the history of the sport, which means these books are the best resources for people who want to improve their skills or know the sport more deeply.

Not Without a Fight by Ramla Ali

The memoir of Ramla Ali tells about her unique life as a fighter, a model, and a human rights activist. Through 10 of the toughest fights, which equally took place in the ring and outside of it, she discloses the challenges she had to go through: fleeing as a refugee, searching for her place in the boxing world, and love. Her story inspires resilience and empowerment. 

Sporting Blood by Carlos Acevedo

The book presents the glorious tradition of boxing literature. It features eloquent prose on popular and renowned figures, such as Muhammad Ali, Sonny Liston, and Mike Tyson. Using narrative art, Acevedo highlights these celebrated fighters' essence and the lasting impression they created, proving his excellence as a sports journalist. 

Dog Rounds by Elliot Worsell

Elliot Worsell tells us about the tragic result of a deadly boxing match, and he shares the life of boxers who have caused death unintentionally. Using interviews and a recurring coverage of tragic places, the author ventures into the depths of the consequences of these incidents, thus unmasking themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the inherent dangers involved.

Boxer Handsome by Anna Whitwham

Through Bobby's narrative, the novel immerses the reader into the realm of boxing, which plays a major role in his family background. The book takes place in East-End London, narrating the themes of identity, rivalry, and community of Bobby, whose upcoming fight and the challenges both in and outside the ring are the story's focal point. 

Born to Box by Alex Daley

The book narrates the extraordinary life of Nipper Pat Daly, hailed as boxing's unparalleled prodigy. Daly quickly rose, starting as a professional boxer at 10, competing with adults by 14, and ranking globally by 16. However, his career was cut short due to overwork, retiring at just 17. Coauthored by Daly, the book provides a unique insight into his remarkable journey. 

The Years of the Locust by Jon Hotten

The book delves into the riveting true tale of Rick "Elvis" Parker, an eccentric boxing promoter, and his loyal fighter, Tim Anderson. Set in the 1990s South, the narrative unfolds with intrigue, murder, and the collision of two vastly different characters amidst the backdrop of the boxing world. 

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On Boxing by Joyce Carol Oates

Drawing from her early experiences attending boxing matches with her father, Joyce Carol Oates offers keen insights into the sport's characters and rituals. She skillfully captures the physicality and raw intensity of boxing while grappling with its complex allure and the inherent damage it inflicts. 

A Man's World by Donald McRae

The book tells a story of Emile Griffiths's turbulent boxing history, including his fateful fight with Benny Paret, whom Griffith fatally injured after an amount of taunting using homophobic slurs. Donald McRae shows how tough Griffith's life against society's prejudice is in the dramatic story of triumph and tragedy in the boxing ring. 

This Bloody Mary Is the Last Thing I Own by Jonathan Rendall

Jonathan Rendall recounts his journey from boxing enthusiast to writer, reflecting on his boyhood fascination with the sport and his efforts to promote boxer Colin "Sweet C" McMillan. It is a candid memoir offering insight into faith and disillusionment in boxing. 

Boxing: A Cultural History by Kasia Boddy

Kasia Boddy traverses the sociocultural components of boxing and shows how it has evolved throughout history. The narrative goes from Daniel Mendoza, the world's first celebrity boxer, to Mike Tyson, who studied ferocity in the ring, weaving into discussions on race, gender, and other social issues. Her study sheds light on the sport's profound influence across various forms of media and expression.

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