Timur Erasylov
At 35 years old, I felt the accumulated toll of years in the ring as I swung my legs out of bed. Our modest apartment in Almaty, Kazakhstan, was bathed in the early morning quiet, the city slowly coming to life outside. My wife, Aisulu, slept peacefully beside me. Her steadfast support had been crucial in my recovery from a dark period marked by depression and substance abuse, triggered by a significant defeat in my boxing career.
That particular loss had a profound impact, leading me into a downward spiral of despair and addiction. Feeling disconnected from my profession and life, I struggled to find a way out. The turning point came when I met Aisulu, then 29, whose resilience and unwavering faith in me guided me through rehabilitation. Her influence was instrumental in my journey back to sobriety and reignited my passion for boxing, allowing me to rebuild my career step by step.
Currently, as I prepare for what might be my final fight, I am driven by a renewed sense of purpose. Each training session, every punch thrown, and each mile run are undertaken with my family at the forefront of my mind. With Aisulu now four months pregnant, the impending arrival of our child imbues me with a determination that transcends any challenge in the ring. This fight is not merely about reclaiming a title; it represents a pivotal moment to secure a stable future for my family and transition into a new role as a father and husband.
The training regimen is intense, reflecting the gravity of the upcoming bout. However, the clarity and focus derived from understanding what is truly at stake provide an unparalleled motivation. Post this fight, my intention is to retire. The risks inherent in boxing have been a constant companion, but now my priorities have shifted. My family requires my presence and support more than the sport demands my participation. Winning this fight will symbolize the culmination of my boxing career and the commencement of a new chapter, characterized by hope, responsibility, and the promise of a brighter future.