A Thousand Blows reveals Black boxing history

The new drama A Thousand Blows showcases the life of boxer Hezekiah Moscow and highlights a rich yet neglected history.

Insights into Britain's Black boxing history

A Thousand Blows, created by Steven Knight of Peaky Blinders fame, centers on Hezekiah Moscow, a Victorian-era boxer. Moscow, who came from Jamaica, exemplifies a broader history of Black boxers in Britain, dating back to the 1890s. This narrative picks up momentum from events like the 1980 match at Wembley Arena, highlighting a long struggle against racial prejudice in sports. The show brings attention to figures like Bill Richmond and Tom Molineaux, who faced both triumphs and hardships in the boxing world. Their stories, often overshadowed by more contemporary boxers, reveal deep-rooted challenges within British sports heritage.

The rise of A Thousand Blows signals an important shift in British cultural narratives. It uncovers unsung heroes in boxing history, challenging the prevalent view that modern Black boxing success started in the 1990s. This underappreciation of earlier athletes like Moscow and Richmond reflects broader societal issues, especially regarding race relations in Britain. The film's portrayal of boxing as not merely a sport but a means of survival and expression showcases the resilience within the Black community. It begs the question: how many other stories have yet to be told?

Highlights

As A Thousand Blows gains popularity, it may inspire further exploration of Black British history.