Ray Charles Leonard, also known as Sugar Ray Leonard, is a former Professional boxer who is known for his agility in the ring. He was a part of the Fabulous Four, along with Roberto Duran, Marvin Hagler, and Thomas Hearns, and won six world championships. However, despite his success in the ring, Leonard had to face a tougher battle outside the ring with addiction.

Recently, Leonard appeared in an interview with IFL TV where he proceeded to talk about his struggle against addiction. He also talked about how his boxing career led to his substance abuse. He gave insights from his own experiences. Furthermore, he talked about his regrets and bad decisions. He also talked about how substance abuse took a hold of him without him being aware of it.

Sugar Ray Leonard’s struggle with addiction

In the interview, Sugar Ray Leonard shared how alcohol and drugs don’t discriminate whether you are a homeless person or one of the best in the sport. He said, “It is a challenge? yes it’s one of our toughest fights.“ He further said, “And I used to think that because I am Sugar Ray I’m not a drug addict. I am not an alcoholic.” Ray was so engrossed in his drug abuse that he did not even consider how the drugs and alcohol took a hold of him. All the time he held a belief that he could not be addicted.

He went further and explained how meeting his wife Bernadette changed the course of his life. He shared, “Wasn’t until I met my loving wife, Bernadette. And she took me to our first AA meeting. I was a nervous wreck.” Ray went ahead and shared how even being there, he still couldn’t completely accept the reality. He said, “They said Bob I’m an alcoholic, John I am an alcoholic. I said I’m Ray… I didn’t say I’m an alcoholic. My perception of an alcoholic was people on the street, homeless people. Look at me, I’m okay.”

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Leonard was also filled with gratitude in his heart for his loved ones, as they were the ones who never left his side throughout his addiction. He credits them for helping him overcome his addiction and said, “you feel the love, support, giving back, make a difference. That’s when you will start loving yourself.” Sugar Ray’s message is a powerful one, reminding all of us that anyone can struggle with addiction and support is quite an essential tool to overcome it.

Besides Ray Leonard, another accomplished boxer admits to drug habits

Recently, a video of former world champion boxer, Kell Brook, consuming a banned substance went viral. In the video, he appeared to be snorting the substance. The video caused a lot of backlash and concern from fans who felt dismayed and disappointed by his behavior. Although he apologized to his fans for the video, he still was criticized drastically. This was especially so after the extraordinary support he received when he announced his retirement.

Read more: ‘I Was Like That at One Particular Time’: Adrien Broner Declining Floyd Mayweather’s ‘Grueling’ Offer Left 50–0 Boxer Reminiscing About Legend Sugar Ray Leonard’s Advice Once

Brook issued a public apology to his fans, he also admitted in front of everyone that his actions in the video were not reflective of his true character. He also assured that he understands the seriousness of the situation and takes full responsibility for his choices. Brook promised to make positive changes in his life and work to regain the trust and respect of those who have supported him in the past.

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