“It Does and I Use the Word ‘Retired’ Lightly Because Never Say Never”: Tony Bellew Shares His Thoughts on Switching From Boxing to Golf

Tony Bellew retired back in 2018. The former cruiserweight champion had a celebrated career of 30 victories, three defeats, and one draw. His last bout took place against Oleksandr Usyk back in 2018. Bellew was stopped by the current unified heavyweight champion in the eighth round and that was all she wrote. However, it appears that his retirement may be kept in abeyance and intriguingly golf might be the reason for it.

Many retired athletes are fascinated with golf and Bellew is no exception. The boxer had a humble upbringing and was never exposed to the sport. However, after making a name for himself, Bellew has been mesmerized by the sport. In a recent interview, he dwells deeper into his love for golf, what he enjoys the most about it, and possibly coming out of retirement.

Tony Bellew narrates his journey from boxing to Golf

In an interview with GolfMonthly, Bellew got candid about his boxing career. He confessed that becoming the world champion was one of his happiest moments in life. In addition, the interviewer asked the boxer to elaborate on his passion for golf after retirement. To which he initially responded that his retirement may not be permanent and does foresee a future in which he could possibly make a return to the squared circle. He stated, “It does and I use the word “Retired” lightly because never say never.”

In addition, he talked about the lessons one can learn from golf that can be utilized in other aspects of life. Reflecting on the same, he said, “I think the biggest part about golf is that being able to wipe out bad shots straight away which would be a great mental thing to have in any field. In any occupation, sport, whatever you want to do.”

During the latter part of the interview, Bellew talked about how he plays golf and the passion he has for this sport. That being said, he does not consider himself to be a great player as of yet. However, he is resilient and it was evident after he made a bold assertion.

“I will not stop”: Tommy Bellew vows to continue playing golf

Bellew finds mental resilience to be an important aspect of sports such as golf and boxing. In addition, he compared the two sports. Speaking to Golf Monthly, he stated, “Golf is probably the biggest mental battle I’ve come across, it’s right up there with boxing,”  He channelized his mental fortitude and vowed to become a competitive golf player or a single-figure handicap.

Read more: “She Lived Through a Horrific Racism”: Former World Champion Tony Bellew Opens Up About How He Got His Fighting Spirit From ‘Extremely Tough and Resilient’ Mother

Reflecting on it, he stated, “I will not stop until I get a single-figure handicap.” 

It is safe to say that Bellew is passionate about golf. However, his love for boxing has not died yet as he is open to making a return to the boxing ring. On that note, we ask you, who would you like to see him fight next if he was to make a comeback? In addition, what are your thoughts and opinions on his newly found love for golf? Share with us in the comment section below.