Welsh boxer Rosie Eccles is preparing for her final competitive tournament at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, aiming to complete a career trilogy with a third medal. The 30-year-old light-middleweight, who secured gold in Birmingham in 2022, hopes to make history by becoming the first to retain the title before likely retiring.
Eccles has overcome significant adversity throughout her career, including persistent back and knee injuries, as well as debilitating nerve damage following a COVID-19 infection that resulted in a 90% loss of function in her right arm. Despite these hurdles, she credits the support of head coach Colin Jones and performance director Adam Park for enabling her return to peak condition.
Reflecting on her journey, which began with the Welsh Boxing program at age 18, Eccles noted that while the Olympic dream initially drove her, the Commonwealth Games hold a special place in her heart. Although she expressed some frustration at not achieving Olympic gold, she remains focused on leaving a legacy of resilience for her family. Coach Colin Jones praised her unwavering determination, noting that she refused to quit even when her future in the sport was uncertain due to a recent knee injury and surgery.
