Eklund’s career included a first-round knockout victory over C.J.
Faison and a win over Allan Clarke in nine rounds.
Eklund’s professional record culminated in 19 wins, including four knockouts, and 10 losses.
This claim was later disputed, withLeonard and the referee asserting it was a slip.
The fight, however, was not just about the moments in the ring.
It was also a turning point for Eklund, and his career started to decline afterward.
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His battle with addiction began to overshadow his career, leading to a gradual fade from the boxing spotlight.
However, Ward’s resilience and hard work eventually paid off.
He developed a reputation as a tough, relentless fighter,becoming known as “Irish” Micky Ward.
He turned professional in 1985 and quickly made a mark by winning his first fourteen fights.
Ward’s style, particularly his devastating left hook to the body, became legendary.
He earned a shot at the IBF Light Welterweight Championship in 1997 but was unsuccessful.
In 2000, Ward’s perseverance paid off when hewon the WBU Light Welterweight title by defeating Shea Neary.
Ward is best known for his trilogy of fights with Arturo Gatti, beginning in 2002.
The rematch saw Gatti victorious, and in their third encounter, Gatti won again by unanimous decision.
However, in real life, his record was 34-9 with 25 KOs.
Eklund’s battle with drug addiction had a profound impact on both his life and his brother’s.
To accurately depict Dicky in this condition,Bale dropped to 145 pounds forThe Fighter.
The Fighterfeatures a fictionalized version of this documentary, titledCrack In America.
Eklund, despite his personal struggles, played a crucial role in Ward’s boxing career.
He served as Ward’s trainer, imparting his knowledge and experience to his younger brother.
Yet, amidst the turmoil, the bond between Eklund and Ward remained strong.
They supported each other through personal and professional hardships, showcasing the depth of their connection.
What Happened To Dicky Eklund & Micky Ward After The Fighter?
The family dynamics of the movie were also heightened, according to the family members themselves.
He didn’t like it seeing all the drugs stuff, it brought him back to that time.
All his mistakes weren’t for nothing."
“‘But do you guys have to show my sisters and mother this way?’
He was always more concerned about them than himself.”