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Into the Woods provides a sharp insight into the true motivations of fighting men. Rather than dealing in cliche, hype or the myth of the 'noble art', former world light heavyweight champion, Clinton Woods, lays bare the culture that surrounds his sport. From meagre beginnings in a large family, on Sheffield estates decimated by Margaret Thatcher's attacks on the steel industry, to booze, drugs and tussles with the law, Woods had chaotic and bloodstained origins. Having boxed as a junior, he returned to the ring in his 20s, seeking change. On a pro journey that eventually saw him trade blows with Roy Jones Jr, Glen Johnson and Antonio Tarver, he confounded naysayers to win every title from domestic level to world. Along the way, he mixed with some of the most fascinating characters of his era. Woods's integrity, honesty and refusal to surrender forged his success. Seven years into his retirement, he has time to reflect.
Into the Woods asks whether those who come from violence can ever really leave it behind.
About the author
Clinton Woods has collaborated with Mark Turley to write his life story. Mark is the author of five books including Journeymen: The Other Side of the Boxing Business and Redemption: From Iron Bars to Ironman. His work was nominated for William Hill Sports Book of the Year 2015 and named among the Guardian's best sporting books for the same year.
Summary
Clinton Woods emerged from a chaotic early life to become IBF light-heavyweight champion of the world. In a 15-year professional career he shared a ring with legends Roy Jones Jr, Glen Johnson and Antonio Tarver. He also won British, European and Commonwealth titles, making him one of the most decorated UK pro boxers of the last two decades.
