Kell Brook has released an apology after a video of him sniffing white powder was obtained and shared by a tabloid newspaper.
The former welterweight world champion officially hung up the gloves in 2022 after a long-awaited victory over career rival, Amir Khan. It was the final note of a 43 fight campaign with 40 wins and losses that came only to the very elite of the sport.
Brook has flirted with a return to the ring ever since retiring. Whilst the excitement of a big-money fight over a domestic rival plays a part, he’s made it clear that his driving motivation for it is improved mental health. Claims of feeling ‘lost’ and ‘without purpose’ have drawn concern from fans and fighters.
The video – which appeared to be filmed without the fighter’s consent – was doing the rounds on social media just as talk of a comeback had reached a crescendo.
Brook has now addressed the leak, apologising and once again opening up about his struggles now that he doesn’t have the regimented demands of a top-level pro boxing career.
“I messed up, I hold my hands up and want to apologise to my family, gym friends and fans.
It’s no secret that I struggle with mental health and I’m finding retirement really hard. I’m actively seeking the help I need to get me on the right path. Again i apologise for the hurt I’ve caused.”
I messed up,I hold my hands up & want to apologise to my family gym friends & fans
It’s no secret that I struggle with mental health & I’m finding retirement really hard. I’m actively seeking the help I need to get me on the right path. Again i apologise for the hurt I’ve caused
— Kell Brook (@SpecialKBrook) February 2, 2023
His statement comes after friends from the fight game, including Johnny Nelson and Ricky Hatton, sent public messages of support. Many feel that Brook’s apology isn’t necessary, and would rather see one from the people around him that are willing to exploit his situation for personal gain.
Fans will join his peers in wishing ‘Special K’ the best on his recovery journey, and be hopeful that he’ll be around the sport of boxing for years to come, whether that’s inside the ropes or in the gym guiding the next generation.
His statement is yet another stark reminder of the need for the sport’s big players to actively work towards aftercare and wellbeing support in retirement.