Journeymen

This book tells a story that is often purposely ignored—that of the modern-day boxers who lose for a living. Far from the pay-per-view hype, the book lays bare the reality of modern-day boxing and the way it works in small-hall venues countrywide. 2013 saw the 100th and final fight in the career of East London's Johnny Greaves, remarkable for the fact that he won only four of those contests. He took fights at short notice, facing young prospects with the implicit understanding that he was not there to win. Journeymen features in-depth interviews with Greaves and other men who have similarly served the fight game, including Kristian Laight (164 defeats), Daniel Thorpe (113) and Jody Meikle (43). Though sometimes dark, their tales reveal humor, wisdom,and sporting pride: the journeymen eschew glamour, make the best of what they have,and face the world with a smile and a wink.