Pint-sized pugilist Toby Totney is the only boxer with cystic fibrosis to fight in a licensed bout – and he’s only 11.
Toby, who was diagnosed with the genetic condition at eight weeks old, made his ring debut three years ago and mum Gwyneth says he has gone “from strength to strength” since.
Doctors think his tough training regime is also helping him to fight symptoms of CF, which causes excess mucus build-up in the body, particularly in the lungs and digestive system.
Mum Gwyneth, 35, said she used to keep her son “wrapped in cotton wool”. But after daughter Abigayle, 16, started boxing, she gave it a go herself – then Toby took an interest.
Now he trains six times a week and Gwyneth said: “Letting him go out in the gym has been the best thing for him. When Toby first showed interest, the doctors approved and said the fitness training would be good for him.
“He was never meant to fight but one day he asked if he could go in the ring and start sparring and he’s gone from strength to strength.”
Toby is prescribed a cocktail of 11 daily medications plus vitamins and nebulisers.
He used to need up to three two-week hospital stays a year for treatment but since he began boxing he has been admitted only once, for a routine “tune-up”.
The Totney family, from Dudley, West Mids, all train at the Priory Park Boxing Club in the town.
Toby’s age group have bouts featuring three two-minute rounds with the fights judged on skills rather than who wins.
Toby said: “The best part about boxing for me is punching people in the face.
“I was never worried about getting in the ring. I feel really good. I feel the same as everyone else at the club.”
Gwyneth said the family were “very proud” when Toby fought in his first England Boxing-carded bout last November.
She said: “No one forces him to train, he does it all himself just because he likes it so much.
“I’d heard horror stories about CF about being around other people and dirt and dust. Letting him go train was a big thing. But now I know it’s making him healthier.”
Toby lives with Gwyneth, her partner and his five siblings aged eight to 17 and eats a high fat, high protein diet due to his condition. Malt loaf and bacon are his staples.
The medical team at Birmingham Children’s Hospital support him at bouts and Gwyneth said: “They love the fact they now have an England boxer in their department.”
England Boxing’s interim chief executive, Charlie Ford, said: “Toby is a shining example of how people can overcome personal difficulties to enjoy their sport.”
Toby also raises funds for other kids with CF and Miranda Williams, of Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “He’s a very inspiring boy.”
