The boxing world and the political arena don’t often collide, but one former fighter is stepping into an entirely new ring.
Though uncommon, boxers turning over into politics is not unheard of, with Manny Pacquiao famously Senator in the Philippines, Nikolai Valuev becoming a member of parliament, and Vitali Klitschko becoming mayor of Kyiv being just a few examples of fighters trading the ring for a fight of an entirely different kind.
The move comes as part of Reform UK’s campaign to gain influence in local government, with the party selecting one ex-boxer as their candidate.
Having competed at the highest level in the sport, even facing Ryan Garcia at the height of his career, he is no stranger to big challenges, but this latest venture represents an entirely different kind of battle.
Luke Campbell Steps Into Politics Alongside Nigel Farage
Luke Campbell, the 2012 Olympic boxing champion and former world title contender has shared the ring with stars like Ryan Garcia and Vasiliy Lomachenko, but retired from boxing in 2021, with many believing the Hull star never truly reached his potential.
Campbell, who famously fought Garcia in 2021, even knocking the American down before losing by stoppage has been named as Reform UK’s candidate in the upcoming Hull mayoral election, as the city prepares to introduce the role for the first time.
Speaking on his decision to enter politics, Campbell emphasised his desire to make a difference in Hull, the city where he was born and raised:
“I got excited about what I can do for my community. How can I put the people of Hull and East Yorkshire first?”
Campbell was seen pictured with Nigel Farage, leader of the Reform UK Party, ahead of his quest to become mayor.
With his campaign now underway, Campbell will be looking to prove he can be as effective in the political ring as he was in the boxing ring. But just like in his fights against Garcia and Lomachenko, he knows he’s up against tough opposition.
The election will take place later this year, and while the result remains to be seen, Luke Campbell is surely in for a fighting chance.
