A boxer who was once told he would never fight again after developing a severe blood disorder has described an overwhelming sense of joy after winning his first professional match. Reuben Muston from Reading is believed to be the world’s first boxer to receive a professional license following a bone marrow transplant.
Muston was diagnosed with aplastic anaemia after suffering a nosebleed during a national final fight in 2022 that persisted for an entire day. On Saturday, he defeated Jake Pollard on points at Harrow Leisure Centre, calling the victory deeply meaningful. Before stepping into the ring, he understood the importance of the moment, describing the atmosphere in the London arena as “incredible.”
He expressed a strong desire to demonstrate that it’s possible to overcome serious challenges, saying, “Everything really, really relied on winning that fight.” Supported by 200 close friends and family members who had witnessed his toughest moments, Muston felt the win was a shared triumph. “When I win, it’s not just me, it’s everyone. It was something truly special. The whole place was energised,” he added.
“It was incredible,” Muston reflected. “The feeling of having your hand raised after winning a fight is euphoric.” Looking ahead, he hopes to compete again before the end of the year. “This is only the first step on the ladder — we have a long journey ahead, and with the momentum we’ve got, we’ll keep improving,” he said. “I no longer take life for granted. I don’t wait around; I seize every opportunity.”
Muston was 18 when his aplastic anaemia diagnosis came after that relentless nosebleed in 2022, which happened during a national final match. Following this, he underwent a stem cell transplant using cells donated by his father Danny, along with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. After a two-and-a-half-year recovery, he returned to the ring to win gold at the national championships.
When he received his professional license earlier this year, Muston said he had never stopped envisioning a comeback despite being told his career was over. His license was approved by the British Boxing Board of Control, which oversees professional boxing in Great Britain. To qualify, applicants must pass a thorough medical evaluation, including blood work and a brain scan.
Fan Take: This inspiring comeback story not only highlights the resilience and dedication required in boxing but also opens the door for others facing severe health challenges to pursue their passions. Muston’s successful return could pave the way for more medically approved fighters to step back into the ring, bringing new hope and diversity to the sport.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
