大象传媒

To some boxing is "the noble art of self defence" - to others it's a violent and archaic blood sport that should be banned.

A last chance to warm up

For Stephen Hole, boxing has become a central part of his efforts to rebuild his life after a decade of excessive drinking.听 He says going along to his local amateur boxing club for the first time was terrifying, but he was quickly accepted.

He's found the discipline and the sense of physical well-being that boxing has given him has transformed all aspects of his life.

It's even made getting up in the morning easier. After hours of sparring, gym work and running, he's stepping into the ring for his first real fight.听It's three rounds of two minutes each - if he lasts the distance.