“I’m F**Ked Up”: Adrien Broner, in “Fear”, Finds It Hard Dealing With Heartbreaking Death of His Father Figure and Long-Time Trainer

In a world where the ring serves as a sanctuary for fighters, what happens when the cornerstone of that sanctuary crumbles? Adrien Broner, synonymous with boxing, recently faced a devastating blow that has left him staggering outside the ring. Often making headlines for his quirky posts, Broner is in the news for quite the contrary this time. This is because he is going through a big loss. 

The man who molded him into a world champion, his long-time trainer and father figure, Mike Stafford, passed away at 67. The emotional turmoil is palpable, and Broner’s recent social media posts scream of a soul in agony. Who was Mike Stafford, and why has his death left such an indelible mark on Broner? Let’s unravel the story shaking the foundations of the boxing world.

Adrien Broner is left with a void

Broner’s recent video interview with Fight Hype tears at the heart. He shows apparent distress, and his voice shakes. Broner said with a heavy heart and voice, “I just lost my daddy, boy. Now I fear for you, listen to me. Six years old, he threw me in the fire. He didn’t care, he didn’t care. They’re three years older than him, they couldn’t mess with me. Booming in the fire. And then he passed away on me, man.”

It was quite evident that Broner couldn’t fathom his emotional turmoil. Stafford was more than a trainer. He was a mentor and father figure, present at every major milestone in Broner’s career. He further added by saying, “Every World title, he was there. When they all said he wasn’t, he was there letting them know. Yeah, it’s him, thank you, it’s him. He was there. I ain’t trying to see you boxing without him, bro. I  ain’t gonna lie to you bro. I’m f**ked up.”  Indeed, the loss is huge. Broner now navigates uncharted waters. Stafford lifted people up and provided structure. His absence creates a void, affecting both Broner’s career and personal life.

Remembering the legacy of Broner’s trainer

Mike Stafford earned respect in the boxing community. He didn’t just train Broner as he also mentored notable boxers like Rau’shee Warren and Jamel Herring. He ran the Cincinnati Golden Gloves gym. The gym served as a haven for young talent. Stafford acted as a father figure for he taught life skills, not just boxing.

Moreover, his impact reached far beyond the ring. USA Boxing named him “U.S. Coach of the Year” in 2003 and 2005. He coached at the Summer Olympics in 2004 and 2008. His death impacts more than just the boxing world. It leaves a lasting legacy on young athletes everywhere.

Read More: “Rest In Peace”: Claressa Shields, Adrien Broner, Caleb Plant, and Others Join Boxing World in Mourning Tragic Loss as Legendary Coach Dies at Age 67

The loss of Mike Stafford is a devastating chapter in Adrien Broner’s life, one that has left him emotionally shattered and in “fear” of what comes next. As he faces the upcoming challenges, both in and out of the ring, the absence of his father figure looms large. What are your thoughts on how Broner will cope with this immense loss? Will it break him, or will it serve as a catalyst for a new chapter in his career? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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