HANGIN' TOUGH

In this debut collection of essays, Akrim discusses the science and history of boxing.

Essays is perhaps a slight misnomer when talking about the author’s paeans to the sport of boxing: While the collection is divided into theme-related chapters, each of these consists of questions posed and answered on the Quora website. Akrim takes on all comers, never dodging a challenge. The content is well collated; the broader conclusions emerge organically across the whole work rather than as the precise endpoints of targeted arguments. In “Who’s the Greatest?” the author lists Muhammad Ali first, Mike Tyson second, and Sonny Liston third in a ranking of heavyweights based on who (hypothetically) would beat whom if matched in their respective primes. Yet the impression the reader receives from the collection as a whole is that the author prefers Tyson, who features prominently and positively in “The Intimidation Game” (an examination of fearsomeness), “I’ve Got the Power” (which focuses on combination punching), and “It’s All in the Name—Peekaboo!” (a consideration of Tyson’s distinct style) as well as being the go-to answer to just about every “who would win?” question posed. It is only with reference to other chapters that the rationale for Ali’s top ranking becomes clear. Akrim writes in a clean, conversational style, treating each question with respect and providing answers that will satisfy the full spectrum of readers, from boxing obsessives to neophytes. The text demonstrates a clear understanding of boxing science and an equally lucid ability to communicate ideas and apply them to hypothetical scenarios. Akrim conveys an obvious love of boxing and a vast knowledge of its history; the result is a sense of benevolent authority. While the question-and-answer format allows for great scope in subjects, it does also lead to considerable repetition. The author never answers the same question twice but often falls back on the same examples (and even specific wordings) when providing evidence. In this respect, one might have hoped for a degree of editing or rewriting. Still, as a record of Akrim’s time on Quora, this collection is unimpeachable.

Erudite, accessible, and convincing—a treasure trove for boxing enthusiasts.