The new year is already in full swing with several World Boxing Federation (WBF) title fights lined up across the globe. Norway, South Africa, Portugal, Georgia, Korea, USA, Germany, France, Nigeria are but a few of the countries which will host our championships.
While in Qatar at the moment, I was asked over dinner tonight about some of the crazy things that have happened to me in the course of my boxing career – and believe you me there are many crazy strange things that have happened which makes my boxing life so memorable to me.
Let me share a simple story capturing the bizarre moments I have had in boxing.
Cameroon 2011. Traveling from South Africa to Yaounde via Nairobi. For some reason, still to this day unknown, the Kenyans decided to offload our luggage and our boxing belt, safely stored in its case, and then informed us that our luggage would be sent to our hotel in Yaounde four days later.
I was having none of this. The authorities decided that they were not really interested in my objections to their decision. I then decided that if I stood in front of the plane in protest then maybe they would bring our luggage and belt to the plane.
My two officials, Mr Marshall and Mr Erasmus, wisely declined to join my madness and rather safely boarded the plane. Of course with my good luck several soldiers in riot gear with AK47s circled me and instructed me to get on the plane.
I of course, with zero intelligence, refused and ordered them to get our luggage and belt. A quick discussion, and thank goodness the soldiers dispersed and within 10 minutes our luggage was brought safely to the plane. I was pale and shaking, but I had won this first battle.
As we approached Yaounde I gathered the troops, Mr Marshall and Mr Erasmus, and informed them that never again would such craziness take place. My bravery, or rather stupidity, almost resulted in me being shot.
I told Eddie and Rassie that I needed no more drama, but rather to do a soundly professional job in the world title fight that was taking place a few days later.
With Eddie, as professional as he is – there is always some drama. This time Eddie decided to go for a walk in an area that we were clearly advised not to venture into, and the outcome resulted in him being kidnapped for several hours, but that’s another story for another time.
In fairness the Cameroon people were fantastic, professional and truly made us feel at home.
My boxing life has many crazy moments – but I wouldn’t change anything about the sport I love so much and with the WBF family which has bonded in such a gratifying manner.
Bring on 2020 and all the stories and adventures we are about to embark on.
One thing is for sure – we will maintain our philosophy of integrity, honesty and transparency and professionalism, but rest assured there will be many stories about 2020 to share at our next convention.
I wish one and all great success, good health, and a happy 2020.
Until next time, keep punching.
Howard Goldberg
PRESIDENT: World Boxing Federation
