Boxing can be rigid and unforgiving at times. However, where there’s a will, there’s a way. That’s the philosophy Daniel Moses follows, a boxer, who has a dream of becoming the world’s first autistic world champion. Having trained under the late and great Stan Ward, Moses seems to have delighted fans on the internet.
Moses and his story came to light when Elie Seckbach of ES News shared his story on social media earlier today. The autistic boxer has been training in the art of pugilism since the age of 11. He presently lives and trains in Reseda, California, at the New Era Boxing Club with his former sparring partner and now head trainer Deon Elam.
A nickname bestowed by a legend
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Seckbach shared Moses’ story on Instagram earlier today with the caption reading, “Meet Daniel [Moses] he’s been boxing since [he was] 11 and hopes to become the first autistic world champion.” Meanwhile, the video itself delves deep into Moses’ life and how he battled his condition to start his journey to achieve his dream of the world championship.
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Moses also goes by the nickname ‘Daniel Boone,’ which he claims was given to him by former WBC welterweight champion James ‘Buddy’ Walter McGirt. Interestingly, Moses revealed he went through behavioral therapy and social skills training consistently, which later proved pivotal in his efforts to make his dream possible.
According to Autism Speaks, in the United States, 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with autism. Moses believes that with the right therapy and support from parents, these children can thrive and lead fulfilling lives. He urged families to seek the necessary help for their autistic children. Moses’ story has become a source of inspiration, and when fans came across his post, they couldn’t help but praise his efforts and the milestones he’s already achieved.
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Can Daniel's inspiring journey change the way we view athletes with disabilities in sports?
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Moses finds a boxing match
Since the story came out, many people from the boxing community have flocked to the post to share their thoughts on Moses. One user motivated Moses with some encouragement. The user wrote, “Keep working and following your dreams big dog! @dmoe98.” With the attitude Moses possesses, it appears he won’t stop even if someone tries to.
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Another user roped in Devin Haney, playfully downplaying Haney’s skills as a boxer. “DANIEL BEATS HANEY 🥊🔥,” commented the user. ‘The Dream’ suffered a devastating loss back in April at the hands of Ryan Garcia, but the decision was later erased because of a PED found in Garcia’s system.
Someone else shared their excitement about following Moses on his boxing journey, eagerly anticipating how his story would unfold. “Daniel a great guy 🙏🏽🥊 I can’t wait to see what he does in the boxing 🥊,” the user wrote. Moses claims to have already been in 25 amateur fights, and may soon transition into a pro.
While most people were supportive, this user made his point. “Everyone has a plan till they get punched in the face 🥊 – Mike Tyson,” wrote the user. The user tried to imply no matter the training, once faced with adversity in the ring, things can go south.
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In an unexpected twist, the post from ES News might have found Moses a potential sparring partner. A user commented, “Shoot me a dm I’m a boxer with cerebral palsy I’ll show you what I got champ …” This could lead to a fascinating matchup between two determined fighters.
Will Daniel Moses achieve his dream? Only time will tell. But no one can deny the sheer grit and determination it might have taken for Moses to get to the position he is in today. If he does make it to the ring in the professional scene, would you watch his fights?
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Can Daniel's inspiring journey change the way we view athletes with disabilities in sports?