On 22nd March, I stepped into a boxing ring at The Buttermarket in Shrewsbury, in front of around 800 people, for something I’d never done before. I hadn’t boxed a single round in my life prior to signing up, but that was kind of the point.
I needed a challenge. Not just physically, but mentally too.
The 8-Week Camp
The UWCB journey started with an 8-week training camp, and it quickly became one of the toughest things I’ve ever committed to. Training was intense, uncomfortable at times, and completely outside of my comfort zone.
Over those eight weeks, I lost 6kg, dropped a significant amount of body fat, and built lean muscle. I got into the best shape I’d been in, not by chasing a number on the scales, but by turning up consistently and trusting the process.
It wasn’t just about fitness though. Boxing pushed me mentally in ways I hadn’t experienced before. Learning something completely new, being bad at it to start with, and sticking with it was a challenge in itself.
Fight Night
Fight night was unreal. Walking out in front of a packed venue, lights on, noise everywhere, it’s a feeling I won’t forget.
I was up against a bigger opponent, and while I didn’t get the win on the scorecards, I gave it everything I had. I didn’t back down, I stayed composed, and I went the distance.
I didn’t win the fight, but I won the mental game.
More Than a Fight
One of the most important parts of the experience was raising £400 for Mind, supporting mental health awareness. Knowing that the discomfort, nerves and hard work were contributing to something bigger made it all worthwhile.
This whole experience reinforced something I strongly believe in:
growth doesn’t happen when things feel easy.
You don’t have to box, run a race, or step into a ring, but finding something that challenges you, gives you focus, and pushes you physically and mentally can be incredibly powerful.
Why It Matters
UWCB reminded me that fitness isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about confidence, resilience, and proving to yourself that you can do hard things , even when you’re uncomfortable or unsure.
I may not have won the fight, but I walked away stronger, more confident, and with a huge sense of achievement.
And honestly, that’s a win in my book.