It’s been over a decade since nine-time national champion and Olympic bronze medalist Tony Jefferies fought professionally. But the Sunderland-born light heavyweight, whose career was, sadly, cut short by hand injuries, remains as active as ever in boxing. He is now a recognized authority on the sport, both as an in-house trainer as well as an online pundit.

His YouTube channel has over 2 million subscribers. It has become the go-to place for boxing tutorials and several other allied disciplines, such as self-defense techniques. But for the enormous support that he received on his journey to success, Tony Jefferies wouldn’t have been where he is today. The ever-humble man that he is, the former professional boxer still remains grateful to all those who helped and supported him. However, the biggest credit he understandably reserves for his life partner, his wife, Sarah Jefferies. Early today, Jefferies penned a heartfelt note to his spouse, a well-qualified nurse, for staying by his side.

Tony Jefferies: Many thanks to you!

The Olympic bronze medalist said that boxing is a demanding sport. Hence, it brings about a certain degree of selfishness in a person. Since the entire focus of the boxer stays on his upkeep, there is a tendency to neglect others’ needs. So it goes without saying how tough it would be for all the loved ones, friends, and relatives to put up with such a person. Hence, they all deserve a big shout-out for their selflessness.

He wrote, “Being a boxer demands a certain level of selfishness. It’s about focus, rigorous training, and often putting your own needs first. Big shout out to our spouses, friends, and family for putting up with us, because sometimes being in the life of a fighter can be an absolute nightmare. These are the people who stick by us, even when our world revolves around training and fights, without the spotlight, without any credit.“

Then finally, he mentioned how they are the ones who stay with the boxer. But still, they always stay out of the limelight. Then, expressing his big gratitude to everyone, Jefferies called out his wife, Sarah Jefferies. He said, “So here’s a shoutout to those who stand by their fighter, understanding our passion. For me, my wife @Nurse__SarahJ.“

Sarah Jefferies, who holds a Masters in Nursing, has become a leading voice in addressing sleep-related issues. Tony and Sarah Jefferies live with their three daughters in Santa Monica, California. The Olympic boxer runs a chain of boxing gyms. He has also undertaken training assignments with a few notables, such as former UFC fighter Brandon Schaub, in the past.

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What’s your take? Do you also believe that loved ones often get neglected when a fighter goes after success? Please share your views with us in the comments below.

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