Kell Brook has issued an apology after a video of him smelling the white powder was collected and shared by a tabloid.
The former world champion welterweight will officially retire in 2022 after a long-awaited victory over career rival, Amir Khan. That’s the last note of a 43 combat campaigns with 40 wins and losses belongs only to the very elite of the sport.
Brook has flirted with a return to the ring since retiring. While the excitement of a big money fight with a domestic competitor plays a part, he has made it clear that his motivation for it is to improve mental health. Statements about feeling ‘out of place’ and ‘no purpose’ have attracted the attention of fans and boxers alike.
The video – apparently filmed without the fighter’s consent – is going viral on social media just as rumors of a comeback have peaked.
Brook has now addressed the leak, apologized, and once again opened up about his struggles when he didn’t have the strict requirements of a top-level professional boxing career.
“I made a mistake, I raise my hand to apologize to my family, friends and fans.
It’s no secret that I struggle with mental health and I find retirement really difficult. I am actively seeking the help I need to get me on the right track. Once again I apologize for the hurt I have caused.”
I was wrong, I raised my hand and wanted to apologize to my family, friends and gym fans
It’s no secret that I struggle with mental health and I find retirement really hard. I am actively seeking the help I need to get me on the right track. Once again I’m sorry for the hurt I’ve caused
– Kell Brook (@SpecialKBrook) February 2, 2023
His statement came after friends from the fighting game, including Johnny Nelson and Ricky Hatton, sent out public messages of support. Many people feel that Brook’s apology is unnecessary, and would rather see an apology from those around him who are willing to take advantage of his situation for their own gain.
Fans will join his colleagues in wishing ‘K Special’ the best on his recovery journey and hope that he stays with the sport of boxing for many years to come. , whether it’s inside the ropes or in the next-generation instructional gym.
His statement is another stark reminder of the need for the sport’s big players to actively work towards aftercare and welfare support in retirement.
