Q How does a boxer deal with life’s hard knocks and build mental strength?

Frazer Clarke has had to summon all of his renowned mental fortitude when dealing with life outside of the boxing ring. “I’ve had bad things happen to me, good things happen, and I learned from all the experiences,” Frazer tells LK.

Life’s hard knocks have taught him valuable lessons. He survived a near-fatal knife attack in 2016 and was caught up in a terrorist atrocity in London in 2017. “I’ve seen a police officer killed, and I’ve seen the attacker, I’ve seen him gunned down as well, he recalls. And yet he wouldn’t change a thing.

“I’ve been boxing for 20 years now. It’s all I know, but it’s true that when you fi nd something you love to do for a living, you never really work another day in your life.

“My family are a huge motivation for me but there’s also the desire to prove people wrong. Plenty doubted I’d make it at the outset but that kind of talk spurred me on to succeed even more.

“I strive to be better at my job. I’m a long way from perfect. But I’m a little bit closer to it today than I was yesterday. Experience has also taught me to be a little more guarded about the people I let into my life. I make my own assessments of people – and aim to surround myself with those who can support me.”

A mentor always helps and in Rob McCracken (Team GB coach) and his family he is learning lessons constantly thanks to boxing and life.

Frazer CLARKE has won medals in the Commonwealth and Olympic Games and sparred with Anthony Joshua, helping him reclaim three world titles.
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Mind over matter

Frazer shares some solid advice

Aim high

“Set high goals and break them down into daily targets, taking positive steps forward every day.”

Embrace experiences

“Learn from the tough times to build mental resilience and then overcome challenges.”

Guard up 

“Surround yourself with the right people who support and positively impact your journey.”

Conquer nerves

“Channel anxiety or pressure into focused training to get into the right mindset.”

Share success

“Try and celebrate achievements by acknowledging progress and taking time for yourself and loved ones.”

Push yourself

“Even after a successful fight, my fi st thoughts are to be self-critical. We look for perfection but we never quite get there.”

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