Anyone signing with the EBU must now box under their own name. The vote was passed on Wednesday with the board announcing,
“We are not banning it. We are phasing out a practice that was originally used by boxers with a good record looking for easy fights”.
Of course this was the reason for name changes a very long time ago. It was never the case with EBU boxers. In fact it has actively been encouraged for the last 15 years. 61% of EBU fighters box under a ‘stage name’. Most boxer keep their second name and change their first name. Some do it the other way around.
The change will cause chaos for EBU revenue. The organisation relies on ticket sales and promotes live show boxing. Name changes were encouraged to make it almost impossible to watch a boxer compete without going to a live show at least once. You cant find a fight if you don’t know the name of the fighters.
So how is it even legal? It sounds like it shouldn’t be. Boxers are working in the entertainment business. They also act the part. Cocky boxers are often humble when away from the crowd. All of it is just a performance. Boxers are often referred to by their nicknames. They trademark themselves in order to stand out. The only thing real about boxing is the fights. Name changing doesn’t break any rules.
We asked some of the EBUs top boxers why the opted to box under a different name, and how the picked the name.
Duke “I was advised to go with a ring name by my manager. I picked the name after watching a tv show”.
Meers “Everyone in the gym had a different name so I just went along with it. I’m glad that I did because it brings benefits. I didn’t have time to think it over so I went with my favourite boxers name. Arrogant come to think of it. If you’re going to pick a new name you might as well pick a good one”.
Havey “I didn’t think I should get beat up so people can watch for free. I picked my Dads name. He was a boxer. People think I’m named after him but I’m not”.
Carter “It wasn’t something I needed to think hard about. My forename is posh. I plucked the name out of thin air to be honest”.
Berron “Both names are changed. I was studying to be a teacher when I turned pro. I didn’t know if I wanted to be a boxer and didn’t want it to impact my future. No one knew I was boxing professionally. My trainer chose the name”.
Tait “It was a financial decision. Every single person that watches me fight should purchase a ticket. Boxing is a short career and we need to make as much money as we can before its all over. I don’t remember a reason for the name”.
Christopher Jones
English Boxing Union 