Preserving Legacy: A Tribute to a Pioneering Champion
The story of Larry Gains is one of triumph over adversity. In June 1931, he secured a historic victory at the Leicester Tigers’ Welford Road stadium, defeating Phil Scott in front of 30,000 spectators to claim the British Empire heavyweight championship. This monumental achievement was followed by another significant win in 1935, when he earned the World Coloured Heavyweight Championship, symbolizing the sport's deeply entrenched racial divide. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Gains remained an emblem of perseverance and elegance both inside and outside the ring.
A City's Pride: The Birthplace of a Champion
Leicester embraced Larry Gains as one of its own. After settling in the city, he became a beloved figure, known not only for his boxing prowess but also for his charm and gentlemanly demeanor. The mayor of Leicester even organized a grand parade in his honor following his victory over Primo Carnera at the White City Stadium in London in 1932. Gains' impact on the community extended beyond sports; he was a cultural icon who helped challenge and dismantle discriminatory practices in boxing.
Michael Gains, Larry's great-great-grandson, has spent years researching his ancestor's life. He has uncovered a treasure trove of photographs, documents, and articles that paint a vivid picture of Gains' time in Leicester. From training at the Jolly Angler pub's boxing gym to competing at Welford Road and Granby Halls, Gains' influence permeated every corner of the city. Michael's efforts have already resulted in a blue plaque being installed at the Shoeburyness Tavern in Essex, where the family settled after the war, further cementing Gains' legacy.
A Symbol of Progress: The Vision Behind the Statue
The proposed statue aims to honor Larry Gains' multifaceted legacy. Designed to reflect his elegance and sophistication, it will depict him in a suit, capturing the essence of a man who was not just a world-class athlete but also a true gentleman. The statue would stand as a testament to his contributions to the dismantling of racial barriers in boxing and his role as a pioneer for future generations.
Michael hopes to garner support from businesses, organizations, and local communities to bring this vision to life. The preferred location for the statue is the Leicester Tigers’ Welford Road stadium, where Gains achieved his greatest victory. By placing the statue there, it would serve as a permanent reminder of his achievements and the city's rich sporting heritage. Michael has launched an online petition urging Leicester City Council to approve the project, and he encourages anyone with stories, memories, or artifacts related to Gains to come forward and contribute to this meaningful endeavor.
National Recognition: Honors Beyond Leicester
Larry Gains' significance extends far beyond Leicester. In 2023, the Canadian government recognized his national and sporting importance by unveiling a blue plaque at the Cabbage Town Boxing Club in Toronto, where he began his boxing journey as a child. Additionally, he was posthumously inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2015, solidifying his place in history. These honors underscore the global impact of Gains' career and the enduring respect he commands.
British boxing legend Frank Bruno has also acknowledged Gains' pioneering role in breaking down racial barriers. Bruno's message of support during the unveiling of the blue plaque in Shoebury highlighted the debt owed to Gains by subsequent generations of black fighters. As Michael continues to champion his ancestor's legacy, he remains committed to ensuring that Larry Gains' story is told to as many people as possible, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams with courage and grace.