Boris Johnson threw some punches during a special visit to a North Woolwich boxing academy last night.
The Mayor of London was tempted to step into the ring and try out some jabs and uppercuts while watching a strenous training session at the Fight for Peace headquarters.
He also took a tour of the Woodman Street gym and spoke to some of the youngsters who have been helped by the martial arts charity.
Speaking to the Recorder, Boris admitted that he would be “absolutely insane” to go seriously up against anyone from the club.
“The guy said I’ve got good natural strength - that was the best compliment he could muster in my dismal performance,” he said.
Boris denied that he was thinking about anyone in particular when he was in the ring, and instead spoke of how impressed he was by the club.
“I just think it’s fantastic,” he said. “I think that the people who do this are wonderful and they are inspirational. There are about 1,100 young people who come here, both sexes, and they are getting a wonderful education.
“That’s what boxing is in a way, it’s teaching you discipline, self-repect and rules - it’s a wonderful thing.”
Fight for Peace uses a combination of boxing and martial arts with educational and personal development to help young people in Newham who are at risk of crime and violence realise their true potential.
Last year, 1,075 youngsters took part in Fight for Peace programmes including 607 new members.
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