It is a popular myth that to reach the top in any sport an athlete must remain self-centred to the point of excluding all others while concentrating on their own performance.

In combat sports this is far from the truth as illustrated by the care shown to his pupils by personal trainer and local bare knuckle boxer Alex Wilson who runs AW boxing and fitness out of Team Agoge in Dewsbury, writes James Bovington.

“I’ve got children and young people in the gym who are facing situations that I’d struggle to cope with even as a grown man,” said Wilson.

“I don’t just mean poverty and social deprivation although that’s unfortunately prevalent, but I mean things that have happened to them personally.

Young boxer Alex Rogers with his mentor Alex Wilson.

placeholder image — Young boxer Alex Rogers with his mentor Alex Wilson.

"I’m a father of two young daughters and like any dad looking after them is my top priority. Other children aren’t always so fortunate.”

One young boy who found himself in that situation is Alex Rogers who lost his mum Kelly when he was just 13.

“I quickly went downhill and I needed a place to go to deal with my anger,” he said.

"My cousin Scotty is a good amateur boxer and he’s doing well. I thought I could give the boxing a try and I found that it helped.

"I take out my frustrations on those bags and although I’ve yet to win a bout my fights give me focus.

"Alex has become a friend who I absolutely know I can rely on as he helps with stuff both in the boxing and in life generally.”

Wilson explained: “Coming here offers an escape for Alex. I keep in constant touch with him. He knows to call when he needs to.

"Sometimes given what’s happened he can be a bit numb, emotionless even that’s why it’s vital to have a support network.

"This is true for all those we train. Not just here but in combat sports clubs throughout the land. Boxing training isn’t just about learning to fight. It’s about helping people channel energy positively to improve both mental and physical health for those prepared to make the commitment and push their limits in a safe, supportive and motivating environment where people leave egos and fears at the door.”

Thirty-year-old light heavyweight fighter Wilson himself has just renewed his contract with bare knuckle promotion BKB.

He added: “I won four of my six BKB bouts with early stoppages in the last two contests. I’ve silenced the doubters.

"It’s facing my fears in the bare knuckle trigon that’s made it possible for me to offer what assistance and guidance I can to those trusting me with their progress as boxers. Loyalty is royalty. I will put everything into trying to be a champion in 2026.”

Those wanting to train with Wilson or potentially offer sponsorship can contact him on Instagram @aw_boxing_fitness.