Former heavyweight boxing champion Frank Bruno has expressed that being awarded the Freedom of the City of London for his accomplishments in sports and his advocacy for mental health is more significant to him than his MBE.
Bruno, who has candidly discussed his struggles with mental health, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder following his retirement in 1996 and has experienced multiple hospitalizations.
In 2017, he established the Frank Bruno Foundation, which provides a non-contact boxing program aimed at individuals dealing with or recovering from mental health challenges.
Chris Hayward of the City of London Corporation remarked that Bruno’s dedicated advocacy for men’s mental health has undoubtedly saved lives.
Bruno’s Advocacy and Achievements
At a ceremony held at the Guildhall, the 64-year-old encouraged other men to share their feelings, stating, „I think there’s a lot more that needs to be achieved by men like us… coming out and saying, ‚I don’t feel too good, I don’t feel right, I’m doing crazy things and doing odd things.'“
Regarding his boxing program, he noted that participants could begin their journey by „detoxing down at the boxing ring“ and engaging in conversations with others.
Bruno began boxing at the age of nine and became the youngest amateur British champion by 18.
Originally from Hammersmith in west London, he was appointed an MBE in 1990 and became the World Boxing Council Heavyweight Champion in 1995 by defeating Oliver McCall. He retired the following year.
Recognition from the City
Bruno was nominated for the Freedom of the City of London award by former Lord Mayor Alastair King and Alderman Robert Howard, who praised Bruno as an inspirational figure. Mr. Howard stated: „Frank Bruno has become an inspirational figure, not only for his hugely impressive achievements in the boxing ring but also for how he has spoken with admirable courage and candor about his mental health challenges. We are today recognizing, perhaps even celebrating, his significant contribution to opening up these sensitive topics for discussion and reflection.“
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Bildquelle: Bildquelle: Ingo Doerrie auf Unsplash
