Boxing
Exclusive: Ex-Foxes Star Danny Simpson Shocks Fans with Boxing Debut
Former Leicester City star and Premier League winner Danny Simpson stuns fans with his boxing debut, drawing with YouTuber Danny Aaron in Dublin
Image Credits: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
Premier League winner Danny Simpson is “buzzing” to embrace his new career – as a boxer!
The former Leicester City ace toasted sweet success when the Foxes famously won the 2015-16 Premier League title as 5000-1 underdogs.
But having finally up his playing boots after a distinguished playing career, former Manchester United and Newcastle United defender Simpson made his boxing debut last Saturday night.
Debut in Dublin
The 37-year-old impressed on his debut and drew with opponent Danny Aaron, 22, a YouTuber with 1.74million followers, as part of the Misfits Boxing X Series 17 at the 3Arena in Dublin.
“It’s (boxing) so much fun,” Simpson told SportsBoom.com. “I have to say that was one of the best experiences of my life.”
A Fresh Challenge and New Training Regime
“From start to finish, the whole journey has been unbelievable. Physically and mentally, it’s been a real rollercoaster.
“It’s exciting. It’s nothing like I thought it was going to be – and I’ve watched boxing all my life.”
“It’s so skilful, the things I’ve learnt have been incredible. The techniques, the footwork, the defending, it’s like a game of chess!”
I really think boxing has come at the right time for me.
Danny Simpson
Finding Purpose Once Again
“You know, over the summer you go on holiday and there’s no (football) punditry because the season hasn’t started yet.”
“I’ve been going to stag doo’s and weddings, drinking and putting weight on.”
“It is what it is, I can’t beat around it, so I’ve found it tough to keep in shape.”
“But for my mental health – and having a routine after football – I’ve really missed it.”
“My last club was Bristol City and since then I’ve missed that routine.”
“Just going back into a gym, being told what to eat and having to diet, has been great.”
“I’ve enjoyed being told what to do because that’s what I’ve had all my life.”
“It’s been brilliant being part of a family again, it reminds of my time in football.”
Dedication and Routine
Simpson, who played 11 seasons in the Premier League and who won promotion with three different clubs during his career, added: “I knew I missed the dedication and routine, but I didn’t realise how much I missed it.
“When you’re in a team you get pushed hard, but this has been even harder because I’ve started at the beginning.”
“I’ve started another sport, and I didn’t have a clue, but I’ve love the challenge.”
“As an elite athlete, going back to the basics again, it’s been a real eye-opener.”
“But I’ve been so inspired by the other boxers and the coaches, it’s another level how hard they train and what they do, day-in, day-out.”
“At the end of the day someone is trying to punch you head in, so you’ve got to learn quick.”
A Last-Minute Opportunity
Simpson’s boxing debut was watched by a sold-out live crowd of some 13,000, as well as a global TV audience of millions on streaming service DAZN.
He was called up as a last-minute replacement for the fight after influencer Beavo's withdrawal due to injury and put himself through gruelling training sessions with legendary trainer Pat Barrett, a former Welterweight champion, at the Collyhurst and Moston Lads Club in Manchester.
“I got a call out of the blue a few weeks ago saying ‘listen, someone’s pulled out of a fight, do you fancy it? We heard you like boxing, so how about it?’,” reflected Simpson.
“I was obviously very naïve because I’ve had five weeks to get ready – and I’ve never boxed before.”
“I had a few days to think about it, but it didn’t take me to say ‘yes’, because it was the challenge that I needed.”
“I’ve probably needed it since finishing at the top level in football.”
“It’s just been a revelation, I’ll be honest, it’s given be so much focus.”
Neil has been a journalist for longer than he'd care to remember, having written for national newspapers and respected publications for over 25 years. For the last three years he has worked freelance for BBC Sport, working on the production desk as a sub-editor and also as a writer, covering a whole range of sports.