Survival Machines
THERE will no doubt be plenty of boxers training hard and making sacrifices during the month of April and, for some, the month will be no different than the last. Yet, for others, particularly those observing Ramadan, the term 'sacrifice' takes on a whole new meaning.
The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is observed by Muslims as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community, and is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It lasts 29 to 30 days, with Muslims fasting from dawn to sunset, and is considered obligatory for all adult Muslims not ill, travelling, elderly, breastfeeding, diabetic, or menstruating. As well as food and drink, Muslims will also refrain from tobacco, sexual relations, and sinful behaviour during the month of April and will typically spend their time devoted to prayer and recitation of the Quran.
As for those who box, the show – that is, training – must go on.
“A lot of it sounds crazy to someone who has never done it before but, to be fair, your body adapts and you grow to kind of enjoy it,” says 7-0 lightweight
