Russell Crowe Shares Shocking Story About Boxing

In a recent episode of Joe Rogan's podcast, actor Russell Crowe shared a poignant memory from the world of boxing, specifically recounting his experience at Kostya Tszyu's final fight against Ricky Hatton in Manchester. Crowe, a long-time boxing enthusiast, attended the match to support Tszyu, who was defending his title against the local favorite, Hatton. The fight ended in a corner retirement after 11 intense rounds, marking a heartbreaking conclusion to Tszyu's illustrious career. Reflecting on the emotional toll of the sport, Crowe recalled advice from a lawyer friend who cautioned against forming close friendships with boxers due to the inevitable pain of witnessing their struggles in the ring. He vividly described Hatton's impressive physique and the overwhelming support he received from the Manchester crowd, which added to the intensity of the bout. Crowe noted that the atmosphere was electric, with Hatton's fans rallying behind him, leaving little room for dissent. After the fight, Crowe was confronted with the harsh realities of boxing as he assisted Tszyu in the dressing room. He described a harrowing scene where he held Tszyu over a bucket as he dealt with severe physical distress. This experience profoundly impacted Crowe, deepening his understanding of the sacrifices and risks that fighters endure. Rogan, empathizing with Crowe's account, remarked on the lasting effects of such battles on fighters, emphasizing that each match takes a toll, leaving them forever changed.