‘Something’s coming’… Tony Bellew makes startling health claim years after retirement

Tony Bellew believes he will see signs of brain damage in a few years

In the program, Bellew spoke to Hammond, a British TV host, about his career injuries, beginning with his hands.

“I can’t punch like I used to. My hands are smashed to bits. […] I had a brilliant surgeon. He said that I’d have full arthritis by the time I was this age, to be fair, but I haven’t so I’m just cracking on.”

Hammond replied: “I’d rather it be your hands than your head.”

Bellew’s response was sobering, as he recognized that the signs may begin to show in a few years: “That’s going to come later, innit? I’ve been punched that many times to the head, it’s coming.”

“Something’s coming, whether it’s the shakes or whether I forget about [my wife]. […] I am forgetful.”

Tony Bellew reveals astronomical number of punches he’s taken

In the same program, when discussing his health, Bellew revealed the gargantuan number of punches he estimates he’s taken to the head throughout his career.

“On average, a world-class fighter, they estimate, takes 50,000 punches to the head a year. I’ve took 1.1 million punches to the head.”

This stat will include fights as well as sparring sessions, and may be exaggerated, but remains a reminder of how much fighters go through to achieve greatness.