Funerals can truly be augmented by a poem that is apt and fitting for the person you have just lost. The following list of funeral poems about boxing are perfect for those who enjoyed a bout in the ring, or who enjoyed taking in a big fight.
The Boxer
by Ross Dix-Peek
The boxer stands with his gloves at the ready
His gait sure and steady
His eyes aware and to the fore
His mind on the bout and nothing more
But deep within, and on his face written
Are the many scars of a life hard-bitten
And while ne’er shy of a hard-fought fight
There is no longer within the feeling of delight
His face has too oft been made to pay
By an opponent better on the day
And though within beats the heart of a lion
His poor pummelled body has given up tryin’
And while a fighter to his very core
Just the smell of gloves now he does abhor
Yet, still he stands, eyes puffed and blood galore
Still ready to wage a pugilist’s war
As blow after blow upon his battered head does fall
He knows but only one way, and that is the brawl
And though his poor body has long since given in
The Spirit of the “Fighter” knows no such thing!
I Am The Greatest
by Cassius Clay (Muhammed Ali)
This is the legend of Cassius Clay,
The most beautiful fighter in the world today.
He talks a great deal, and brags indeedy
Of a muscular punch that’s incredibly speedy.
This brash young boxer is something to see
And the heavyweight championship is his destiny.
This kid fights great. He’s got speed and endurance.
But if you sign to fight him, increase your insurance.
This kid’s got a left, this kid’s got a right,
If he hit you once, you’re asleep for the night.
And as you lie on the floor while the ref counts 10,
You pray that you won’t have to fight me again.
The fistic world was dull and weary,
But with a champ like Liston, things had to be dreary.
Then someone with color and someone with dash,
Brought fight fans a-runnin’ with plenty of cash.
For I am the man this poem is about,
The next champ of the world, there isn’t a doubt.
I am the greatest!
Poem For A Boxer At Rest
by Gabrielle Tinti
translation by David Graham
I have to go
again
even though
I’ve just come back
even if
I’m covered in blood
blood all over me
everywhere
that no one bothers
to wipe off
and yet they call me
still
the crowd cheers
the ref is impatient
my opponent awaits me
I feel deadened
every voice is far away
and yet I hear
I know
that this is the moment
that I have to go
it’s my job
at first I liked it
I couldn’t stop
it was my life
now no longer
I’m exhausted
worn out
I’m in pieces
how long
can my body last?
how many of those punches
can it take?
night is falling
I feel it
falling quickly
on me
my powers weaken
death will come
and be
the fatal wound
for me
the final defeat.
To access our full list of funeral poems, click here.
All poems featured on this website are free to use during any ceremony, although it is good practice to make sure the author is mentioned, if known. Should you require a celebrant for your ceremony, be it a funeral, a wedding, a naming ceremony or something else, feel free to get in touch. I am a double award-nominated Family and Funeral Celebrant covering the entire UK, and would be happy to help you commemorate in a meaningful and personal way.
