Professional boxers put on outdoor training session

Hackney cruiserweight Lawrence Okolie joined fellow Matchroom boxers Reece Bellotti and Charlie Edwards and hundreds of young boxers in West London as the sport of boxing came together following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower.

The Matchroom trio were joined by fellow pros and trainers in a boxing training session as collection buckets were filled to support the families and victims of the terrible blaze that destroyed countless families, and the sport was especially affected with the famous Dale Youth ABC calling the tower home.

Former Reptonand Dagenham amateur Okolie and Bellotti are in training for fights at The O2 Arena in London next weekend, but the pair took time out of their preparations to join the efforts.

“I know people that were personally effected by the fire so it touched me even deeper,” said Okolie.

“It’s great to give something back especially as I’m currently in training so it’s not too often I get to break out of that and meet up with people. It’s great to be involved for the cause.”

Bellotti, who faces Jamie Speight for the WBC International Featherweight title, added: “The boxing community came out for the event and it’s the least I could do was show my face.

“I enjoyed going on the pads with some of the youngsters and raising some money for those effected.”

Former world title challenger Edwards is set to return in the new season as he builds to more title shots, and the Surrey ace was touched by the turn out.

“It was a great turn out and it shows there’s a real genuine boxing family out there to rally in tragic circumstances,” said Edwards.

“Everyone pulls together. The smiles on the kids’ faces was a picture. Some of these youngsters have lost their boxing club and it’s their lives going to the gym.”