A Rocky Journey Of A British Boxer: The Tale of Robin Deakin
Early Struggles: Robin Deakin’s journey in the boxing ring is nothing short of remarkable. Born prematurely and diagnosed with talipes, or club foot, he defied the odds from the very start.
Enduring numerous operations as a child, he didn’t walk unaided until the age of six. Despite these challenges, he found solace and determination in the sport of boxing.
From Amateur to Professional: As an amateur, the British Boxer showcased promise, winning 56 out of 76 bouts. Transitioning to the professional arena under Frank Warren’s Queensbury Promotions, he initially aimed for a prominent position on the fight card.
After a victorious debut, his career took an unexpected turn with a loss in his second bout. This prompted him to embrace the role of a journeyman boxer, fighting wherever he could.
The Longest Losing Streak: Deakin’s career statistics paint a daunting picture, with 51 consecutive losses. Yet, amidst this streak, the British Boxer believes some bouts were unjustly decided. He recounts instances where victory seemed within reach, only to slip away due to questionable judgments.
A Glimmer of Hope: In 2015, after nine years of setbacks, Deakin finally tasted victory again. Overcoming Deniss Kornilovs on points, he experienced an emotional release in the ring, shedding tears of relief. Despite the win, he remained humble, acknowledging the limitations of his opponent.
Retirement and Beyond: Following his retirement from professional boxing in 2018, Deakin briefly explored bare-knuckle boxing, facing similar challenges. Despite setbacks, he remained resilient, continuing to pursue his passion for the sport.
A New Chapter Begins:
Deakin’s upcoming exhibition bout against Ben Day symbolizes more than just a return to the ring. It’s a gesture of support for a fellow boxer facing adversity. Despite their past rivalry, Deakin sees an opportunity to extend a helping hand to a friend in need.
“I’m doing it as an exhibition to give him a bit of help,” Deakin said Speaking to talkSPORTS of the upcoming bout. “He’s my old rival but he’s also a friend – and I might have something in the pipeline for myself as well.”
