War, Baby: The Glamour of Violence

by Kevin Mitchell

25th February 1995 The Dark Destroyer vs the G-ManNigel Benn and Gerald McClennan Two men with a reputation to defend - a reputation for brutal, unforgiving combat both in the ring and outside it. Ostensibly, they were fighting for a world title and a lot of money, the stuff of professional boxing. But this fight was different. It was a rare collision of wills, and few present had seen anything like it. After ten of the most gruelling and vicious rounds that the sport of boxing has ever witnessed McClellan finally was defeated. He knelt in his corner on one knee in submission. And he never got up.This is the story of what brought these two men together on the night of 25th February 1995 and how that night changed them forever. It's a story too about those associated with the promotion of public fist-fighting, who bend morality to suit their needs. It's a story that attempts to unravel the glamour of violence.William Hill Sports Book of the Year Finalist.

204 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2001

Reviews

[Bax · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story is electrifying and unforgettable, unfortunately the prose does not measure up.

As a document of how dangerous boxing can be and a testament to the way many small decisions can snowball into a major tragedy, it is invaluable.

I just wish the prose had served the source material better.

[Jonathan Dennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Friend bought me this. I am a boxing fan in a small way and I remember the boxer and key boxing match in question so I had a genuine interest. It was very well written especially compared with most sports books or biographies (there are notable exceptions) and I'd recommend it to anyone who thinks the subject matter will appeal.

[Nick Long · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably the best book I've ever read about boxing.

[Matt Gale · Rating 5 out of 5]

We all know the fight, what a war it was and the tragic aftermath. Mitchell does a brilliant job here of expanding on that, going into great details whilst remaining compassionate to the situation. Top book would recommend to any fight fan.

[David · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sad, intriguing story. Well written throughout with a nice back and forth between the fight and the 2 fighters lives before and after.

[Mathew Mullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books on boxing. It’s highs and tragic lows.

[A D · Rating 4 out of 5]

Searing look at the attraction of the violence of boxing.

[John Warren · Rating 2 out of 5]

"I'm learning everyday. I'm trying to lean about it all. Fighters are very emotional. A lot of people don't see that. They might look at me, say, and say well, he's an animal — but there's another side tone. Fighting's a very emotional experience."

"You sometimes have to get away from your own beat for perspective."

[Dixon Yurmouf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just found out about this book can't wait too read it.

[Doctor Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gritty tale of the ugly side of boxing.