Damage: The Untold Story of Brain Trauma in Boxing (Shortlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Prize)

“Anyone who loves boxing—even the sport''s most die-hard supporters—must take a longer and more serious look at the issues that Tris Dixon writes about with such nuance and humanity in Damage...there''s no better argument for more studies, discussion, and awareness than this book, a volume equal parts heartbreaking and inspiring with respect to the need for change.”—Greg Bishop, Senior Writer, Sports Illustrated

The secret history brain damage in boxing has never been fully told―until now. From the story behind Muhammad Ali''s deterioration, to first-hand accounts from the fighters themselves, including the beloved Micky Ward.

In Damage, author Tris Dixon delivers a gripping history of "boxing''s darkest secret"—CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy), which was known previously as "Dementia Pugilistica" and "Punch Drunk Syndrome."

This highly-anticipated book has already generated intense discussion on social media about the inner-conflict that comes with being a fan of the "sweet science, " and the difficulty involved in witnessing the devastating brain trauma suffered by the warriors who fight for the entertainment of millions.

Unfortunately, the promoters, managers, and other non-participants who profit from the violence have long looked the other way. Will this book finally drive them to address the issue and help fighters get the help they deserve?

Shortlisted for the 2021 William Hill Sports Book of The Year award.

“This is the book that boxing has always needed...It is shattering yet moving, informative yet tender...An essential read for anyone who cares about boxing and its courageous, damaged fighters.”—Donald McRae, The Guardian

“Anyone who loves boxing—even the sport''s most die-hard supporters—must take a longer and more serious look at the issues that Tris Dixon writes about with such nuance and humanity in Damage...”—Greg Bishop, Senior Writer, Sports Illustrated

It’s an old story—a fighter gains fame, drives fast cars, makes piles of cash, and dates beautiful women. Then comes the fall—booze, drugs, depression, poverty, illness. This dark narrative has been playing out for a hundred years.

Doctors first identified “Punch Drunk Syndrome” in 1928. It later became known as “Dementia Pugilistica.” Today, we call it CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy). The secret history of this disease in boxing has never been fully told— until now.

In Damage, Tris Dixon uncovers the difficult truths of boxing and CTE and chronicles the lives of fighters affected by it. He interviews some of the sport’s biggest names, some lesser-known journeymen, and highly respected trainers and other figures to try to understand why no one wants to discuss CTE or take responsibility for it. Ultimately, Dixon takes aim at what boxing can do to help the warriors who sacrifice their health seeking glory in the ring. Will this book finally drive the sport to address the issue and help fighters get the help they deserve?