12/02/2024

“Return to your corner”: The powerful story of the first African boxing world champion, Battling Siki

by

Dive into the story of boxer Battling Siki, from his humble beginnings in Senegal to his rise as world champion in France, defying racism and adversity in his quest for greatness in the ring.

 

“Return to your corner” unveils the incredible odyssey of Battling Siki, who against all odds, defeated the best European boxers to become the first African world champion in 1922. 

 

Directed by Ashley Morrison, commentator and writer, the film tells the story of how his courageous resistance to the racism that prevailed at the time made him a symbol of determination and courage. 

 

He was asked to lose fights, but he would not. However, he ended up paying the highest price. His life was marked by tragedy when he was brutally murdered and left to die on the streets of New York at the age of twenty-eight. 

 

However, his legacy lives on. The World Boxing Council moved his remains to Senegal in 1993, finally returning him home. “Return to Your Corner” is a powerful narrative highlighting the struggle, glory and memory of a true African boxing icon.

 

Where can you watch it?

  • Session: THE LAST EVENING
  • Film: “Return to Your Corner”.
  • Day: Thursday 22 at 17.30h
  • Duration: 1 hour and 2 minutes
  • Venue: Museu Olímpic i de l’Esport Joan Antoni Samaranch
  • Ticket reservation: https://bcnsportsfilm.org/en/tickets/