Chris, who originally hails from Openshaw, Manchester, came to the city to rebuild his life, but admitted that things were not initially smooth sailing.
He said: “I developed a problem with drinking – and for one and a half years was not motivated – I was lost.
“This all changed when I signed up for Ultra White-Collar Boxing, an eight-week programme which allows people of all ages and abilities to compete and learn a new skill.”
He said: “I came to the training camp with a lot of deep regrets – something I still live with today – but I really loved getting back into boxing.
“When I train, I feel a release, a reset, the thoughts I have temporarily go away.
“I think of these thoughts as little seeds, if you leave them, they grow into a tree.
“Training helps keep them at bay.”
While at the training camp, Chris fought with Shay North – the brother of Cain North, who sadly lost his battle with glioblastoma, aged just 24, in January.
Chris trained with Cain through his battle with cancer, building a strong bond.
