In the boxing ring, Frank Bruno, the adored former heavyweight champion, was always renowned for his great strength and unwavering spirit. Outside of it, though, he faced a problem that was unlike any foe he had ever fought.
On a dark Sunday morning, rumours of Frank Bruno’s demise started to spread. A typical London day with a rain that seemed to match the melancholy atmosphere that had descended upon the city. The sad news that the former champion had died in his sleep was trending on news websites and social networking sites. Frank Bruno was still alive, which presented a challenge for the mourning boxing fans from all over the world.
The 61-year-old boxing legend was spending his quiet retirement far from the bustle of the city, in the peaceful country. He was enjoying a cup of tea while gazing out at the undulating hills and soaking up the peace that had come to be his haven.
He was blissfully ignorant of the mayhem his alleged demise had brought forth.
The story had, in the meantime, quickly travelled throughout London. Eulogies, sympathies, and tributes came in from all around the world. The sporting community was in disbelief, and the media was enraged. How could such a serious error have occurred?
As #RIPFrank started trending on social media, Frank Bruno posted on X to affirm that he is still alive.
After noticing the trend on X, the former World Heavyweight champion responded and said he wasn’t the person who had gone away.
Following the tragic death of former Scottish footballer Frank McDougall on Sunday night, the phrase began to gain popularity.
The boxer, who memorably squared off against Mike Tyson in his late 1980s prime and defeated Oliver McCall to capture the WBC World Heavyweight Championship in 1995, has experienced mental health problems since quitting the sport.
He was twice hospitalized for the problems, but he has since fought back and established a foundation aimed at enhancing the mental health of males all around the world.
Frank Bruno’s final denial of his death ended up being one of the highlights of his illustrious career. It was evidence of his tenacity, as well as of the respect and love that people had for him. The world was grateful for the second chance to honour the living great and would savour every second of it.
Story By: Mustapha Hadji – Ahotor Sports Desk
