In the unforgiving realm of professional boxing, where the bravest souls square off against human obstacles, there are few things a seasoned warrior would admit to fearing. Yet, for Cello Renda, a man known for his relentless `wars` in the ring, there exists a foe more daunting than any heavyweight: the humble laptop and the dreaded pile of paperwork. This surprising aversion defines the post-boxing chapter of a life dedicated to frontline impact, far removed from the sterile confines of an office.
From Ring Warrior to Community Champion
Cello Renda carved out a career that, while not adorned with world titles, was undeniably etched into the memories of boxing fans. An “all-action” professional, he was a true crowd-pleaser, delivering unyielding performances that often became breathtaking spectacles. Sam Eggington, a fellow fighter, perhaps sums it up best: “I was glad when Cello Renda retired. He could really punch.” That sentiment echoes across the countless sparring sessions and professional bouts where Renda`s left hook was a constant, formidable threat.
His 14-year professional tenure included an epic Prizefighter final in 2008 against Martin Murray, a bout so intense promoter Barry Hearn likened it to the legendary Marvin Hagler-Thomas Hearns rivalry. There was also the viral sensation of the “double-knockdown” with Paul Samuels in 2009, a moment that continues to rack up millions of views online, showcasing Renda`s willingness to go to the very brink for entertainment and victory. With 29 wins, many by knockout, Renda`s reputation as a hard-hitting, honest fighter was well-earned. While his wife Nicola might breathe a sigh of relief that the fighting days are behind him, especially with children now in the picture, Renda, ever the competitor, playfully maintains, “You never know. Never say never.” He still runs marathons and hits the bags, maintaining a fitness level most retired athletes only dream of.
A New Kind of Fight: The Battle for Futures
But the true measure of Cello Renda`s success, he argues, isn`t found on BoxRec or in a trophy cabinet. It`s in his profound sense of contentment and purpose. “I wasn`t a world champion and I didn`t earn a fortune from boxing,” he reflects, “but I`m happy – and that`s worth more than money.” This happiness stems directly from his commitment to the Boxing Futures charity, an initiative he joined towards the end of his fighting career in 2018. Approached by businessmen Anthony York and Andy Burley, Renda now runs boxing and fitness classes across Peterborough, Cambridge, and London, transforming lives one punch at a time.
This isn`t just a nine-to-five. Renda describes a grueling, yet incredibly rewarding, schedule: “I’m choc-a-block. I’m in the gym every day. I work 12- to 14-hour days.” He is on the frontline, working directly with individuals grappling with the toughest challenges imaginable: drink and drug problems, mental health struggles, and physical disabilities. He coaches staff, partners with probation services, psychiatric units, schools, colleges, and universities. One might think after years of absorbing blows, a desk job would be a welcome respite. Not for Cello. “If I see a pen and paper and a laptop, I get a headache. I would rather be getting punched in the head,” he states, with a classic, dry wit that underscores his deep-seated aversion to sedentary work. He needs to be where the action is, where he can make a tangible difference.
“I’m helping to give people self-belief and change lives. I tell them how boxing turned my life around and how it can turn their life around as well.”
This personal testimony forms the bedrock of his coaching. Walking into a gym at 15 years old fundamentally altered his trajectory, and he passionately believes it can do the same for others. Boxing, for him, provided far more than financial gain; it provided a compass, a discipline, and ultimately, a path to profound personal fulfillment.
The Mentor in the Corner
Beyond his charity work, Renda has also embraced a new role: that of a licensed boxing trainer with the British Boxing Board of Control. His first professional fighter, George Juby from Kings Lynn, is set to debut soon. Ironically, Renda`s coaching philosophy is a stark departure from his own brawling days. “I coach very differently to how I fight,” he admits. The spars in his gym are “technical, thinking spars,” designed to teach strategy and precision rather than simply enduring punishment. His fighters won`t leave the ring with black eyes after every session, as he often did. This pragmatic approach, gleaned from “real-life experiences, not from YouTube,” reflects a mature understanding of the sport – it’s better to hit and not get hit.
Juby, a 6ft tall, 11-stone boxer, is described as sharp, fast, and good on his feet – qualities that align with Renda`s refined coaching vision. Peterborough has been without a stable of professional fighters since Gary DeRoux, the city`s only British champion, retired years ago. Renda hopes to bring a new era of boxing talent to the area, though he`s not actively seeking a roster of fighters. His focus remains singular: to guide those who seek his expertise.
More Than Money, More Than Titles: A Legacy of Impact
Boxing, for Renda, was never solely about the purse or the belts. It was about finding a purpose, a challenge, and ultimately, a community that shaped him. He reflects on his career without a hint of regret, prioritizing his current happiness and the meaningful work he does. “I would rather do what I’ve done and be happy than be a world champion and be unhappy,” he declares.
Cello Renda`s story is a compelling narrative of transition and purpose. The same tenacity that saw him through grueling rounds in the ring now fuels his tireless efforts to uplift others, proving that true courage isn`t just about facing punches, but about tackling life`s toughest challenges with an unwavering commitment to change. He may dread paperwork, but in the trenches of human struggle, Cello Renda is right where he belongs: on the frontline, fearlessly fighting for a brighter future.
Tristan Blackwood