UPDATE: A groundbreaking boxing event took place on July 15, 2023, at the JW3 cultural centre in London, where a multifaith team of young Israeli boxers showcased unity and resilience against stereotypes surrounding Israel. This urgent initiative, dubbed “Gloves and Doves,” featured an Israeli squad made up of two Muslims and four Jews, standing together in the ring to combat the narrative of “Zionism is racism.”
The event sent a powerful message as Israeli flags adorned the venue, and slogans like “fight for peace” were displayed in English, Arabic, and Hebrew. Boxer and event founder Tony Milch emphasized the importance of the occasion, stating, “We are here for peace, we are here for unity.” Milch, a British-Israeli dual national who moved to Israel in 2019, aims to foster connections between diverse communities.
Last week’s match marked the second time the Israeli boxing team participated in this initiative, following last year’s event in Camden. The project aims to bring young individuals from different backgrounds together, showcasing Israel as a multicultural society that embraces diversity. Milch pointed out that many attendees were unaware of the Arab presence in Israel, noting, “If we can change one mind at a time, we’ll have accomplished what we set out to do.”
The ticketed and live-streamed event received support from the World Boxing Council (WBC), enhancing its significance in the boxing community. Milch highlighted the unique power of boxing to transform perceptions, stating, “The respect you have for yourself once you’ve been in the ring brings you together in a powerful way.”
Special guest Alireza Ghadiri, an undefeated professional boxer of Iranian descent, attended the event, presenting the Alexander Mashkevitch Award for boxer of the night. This prestigious recognition went to Mahmoud Majid, a 13-year-old Arab Israeli from Makr, who impressed audiences with his skills.
The atmosphere was charged with positivity, as British competitor Charles Whitewood shared his experience. After defeating his Israeli opponent from Hadera, he stated, “We didn’t trade many words, we traded punches instead, which brought us closer than words ever could.” Whitewood praised the camaraderie among all participants, calling the event “one of the best” he had ever attended.
As “Gloves and Doves” continues to make waves, its Instagram page serves as a platform for followers to engage and support this vital cause. As the boxing community embraces this initiative, the potential for change and understanding grows, proving that even in the ring, unity can prevail.
Stay tuned for more updates as this inspiring movement unfolds.
