UPDATE: In a powerful display of unity, a multifaith boxing team from Israel has just fought in the UK to challenge misconceptions about Israel and promote peace. Last week, young Jewish and Muslim boxers took center stage at the Gloves and Doves event held at the JW3 cultural centre in London, showcasing the true spirit of a diverse Israel.
The team, comprising two Muslims and four Jews, faced British boxers in a series of matches designed to highlight the coexistence of different faiths within the Jewish state. Attendees witnessed a vibrant atmosphere adorned with Israeli flags and the message “fight for peace” emblazoned in English, Arabic, and Hebrew.
Boxer Tony Milch, the event’s founder and a dual national, expressed the mission’s significance: “We are here for peace, we are here for unity.” Since making aliyah from the UK in 2019, Milch has dedicated himself to fostering relationships among Israel’s diverse communities through boxing.
This year’s event marked the second time Israeli fighters traveled to the UK, following a successful inaugural event in Camden last year. Milch emphasized the initiative’s goal: “to bring young people from different backgrounds together,” dispelling the myth that Israel is not a multicultural society.
Many attendees, unfamiliar with the presence of Arabs in Israel, engaged with the fighters, highlighting the event’s role in raising awareness. “If we can change one mind at a time, we’ll have accomplished what we set out to do,” Milch stated.
The World Boxing Council (WBC) endorsed this unique event, recognized for its transformative power. Milch noted that boxing fosters respect and camaraderie among opponents, creating strong bonds beyond the ring.
The evening featured a special guest, Alireza Ghadiri (aka Razor Ali), an undefeated professional boxer of Iranian descent. Ghadiri presented the ALEXANDER MASHKEVITCH AWARD for Boxer of the Night to Mahmoud Majid, a talented 13-year-old Arab Israeli from Makr, who impressed the crowd with his skills.
British competitor Charles Whitewood, aged 25, praised the spirit of the event, saying, “We traded punches instead of words, which brought us closer than words ever could.” He found the atmosphere incredibly positive, describing it as filled with “love” and camaraderie.
As the Gloves and Doves team continues to gain momentum, they encourage followers on their Instagram page to witness their journey towards fostering interfaith relationships through the sport. This compelling initiative is set to reshape perceptions and build bridges, one punch at a time.
Stay tuned for further updates on this groundbreaking effort for peace and unity within diverse communities.
