Transplant Boxer Score First Pro Win, Euphoric Gloves Finally Find Their Winning Punch

Reuben Muston, a boxer from Reading, has celebrated a remarkable milestone after securing his first professional victory, despite previously being told that he might never fight again following a life threatening blood disorder. Muston defeated Jake Pollard on point at Harrow Leisure Centre on Saturday, describing the moment his hand was raised by the referee as euphoric. The victory carried particular significance because of the extraordinary journey he has taken to return to professional boxing. Muston is believed to be the first boxer in the world to receive a professional licence after under going a bone marrow transplant. His health battle began in 2022, when he was competing in a national amateur boxing final. A nosebleed he suffered during the bout continued for around 24 hours, eventually leading to the diagnosis of aplastic anaemia, a serious condition in which the bone marrow fail to produce enough blood cells. The diagnosis threatened to end his boxing career at just 18 years old. Muston subsequently underwent a stem cell transplant using cells donated by his father, Danny, as well as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Despite being told that his boxing career was over, he remained determined to return to the ring. Around two and a half year later, he made his comeback and won gold at the national championships. Earlier this year, Muston was granted his professional licence by the British Boxing Board of Control, the governing body for professional boxing in Great Britain. Obtaining the licence required him to pass extensive medical check, including blood tests and a brain scan. His first professional victory therefore represented far more than another result on a boxing record. Speaking about the fight, Muston said the atmosphere at Harrow Leisure Centre was incredible and that around 200 of his closest friends and family members had travelled to support him. When I win, it's not just me, it's everyone. It really meant something special. The boxer said the people around him had witnessed the most difficult moments of his journey, making Saturday victory an achievement they could celebrate together. They've seen me at my absolute worst, at my lowest. After his hand was raised following the point victory, Muston described the feeling as euphoric. The boxer is already looking ahead. He hopes to compete again before the end of the year and sees Saturday victory as only the beginning of his professional career. It is only the first step on the ladder. Muston added that his experience had changed the way he approached life, saying he no longer takes opportunities for granted. His journey from a potentially career ending medical diagnosis to a professional boxing victory makes the result particularly significant. While the win marks an important sporting achievement, it also reflect year of medical treatment, rehabilitation, determination and support from his family. For Muston, however, the message appears straight forward, the comeback is only getting started.