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Ex-Champ's Tearful Dementia Fight
2 Mar
Summary
- Former champion Steve Sims battles dementia due to CTE.
- He experiences memory loss and emotional distress daily.
- Sims continues training despite ongoing health challenges.
Former British boxing champion Steve Sims is openly discussing his heartbreaking battle with dementia, a condition stemming from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
Sims, who boxed professionally from 1979 to 1987, began experiencing memory loss from age 32. He was diagnosed with CTE, a progressive and incurable degenerative brain disease resulting from repeated head impacts common in contact sports.
The 67-year-old shared his daily reality, stating, "To be in this fog everyday is a living hell." He often cries when he misplaces essential items like his keys or wallet, experiencing panic and embarrassment from forgetting names.
Despite his ongoing health challenges, Sims maintains a rigorous training schedule, exercising three times daily with weight sessions and long-distance running. His dedication continues, reflecting a spirit undimmed by his condition.
Concerns about long-term support for ex-fighters, particularly regarding mental health issues exacerbated by head trauma, have been highlighted by figures like the late Ricky Hatton. Similarly, the football world has seen similar issues, as noted in the inquest into Gordon McQueen's death, which linked his CTE to heading the ball.
