Within boxing circles, we all recognise the incredible role the sport plays in driving social change and creating real, measurable impact in our communities. Yet, too often, we fall short when it comes to properly capturing and evidencing that impact.

For decades, boxing has provided people from a wide range of backgrounds with a safe space to belong, grow, learn, and develop as valued members of society.

Today, we were joined by returning guest Alex Le Guevel, Head of Community Development at Matchroom, alongside Martin Bisp, CEO and co‑founder of Empire Fighting Chance, to discuss their groundbreaking national and soon to be global partnership.

The partnership is a major investment in grassroots boxing and youth development across the UK. Announced in November 2024, the collaboration sees Matchroom, through its Charitable Foundation, provide a significant six‑figure contribution to support up to 100 amateur boxing clubs over three years.

The partnership enables clubs to deliver Empire Fighting Chance’s psychologically informed programmes, combining non‑contact boxing with tailored mental health and personal support. Together, Matchroom and Empire aim to strengthen club sustainability, improve young people’s wellbeing, and use boxing as a powerful tool for positive social change in communities most affected by inequalityIf you would like to know more about and look into becoming once of these clubs supported by Empire Fighting Chance please contact;

info@empirefightingchance.org

#86 - Harvey Dykes