The Shaping Power of Class in the Art of Pugilism

• In Event: 324 - Section on Race, Gender, and Class Roundtable Session (one-hour).
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 15. RGC and Constructing Difference

Abstract

This study’s examines class facets of boxing culture from a pugilist’s insider perspective, specifically how masculinity is constructed among middle class pugilist compared to working class, and distinguishing between recreational boxers and actively training middle class fighters. I argue that in understanding why people box, one must detail how class status shapes important ideas on what it means to box and why people do it. Using ethnographic methods in combination with previous research on working class pugilist, understanding common pull factors of boxing for middle class and working class individuals highlights common themes such as an outlet for aggression, a mental and intellectual challenge, and an affectionate love towards boxing. Class distinct differences also arise such as boxing as a social capital, masculinity, morality, a way to challenge structural restraints, and a means to fitness. This analysis details individuals acting within their social structure and is in no way a critique of individual pugilist. This research has sought to differentiate working and middle classes processes by analyzing the literal content of member's statements, while underlying meanings behind content. Lastly this work has sought to contribute to the general theoretical processes in boxing research.

Author

• Andrew Skyler Gutierrez, University of Colorado-Boulder