Sandhurst Mayor Challenges Khan to Charity Boxing Match

The Mayor of Sandhurst has challenged Sir Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, to a charity boxing match. Cllr Graham Birch says money raised would be split between charities supported by the Mayor of London and his own mayoral charities, Thames Hospice and Walk Once More.

Cllr Birch said: "This is a completely genuine challenge, although definitely made with a sense of fun." He admits Sadiq is likely the better boxer while his own experience is mainly stance work and hitting punch bags, but hopes training could help and that the contest would draw a big audience and raise substantial funds.

Birch says the aim is charitable, not political, and to show politicians can work together. He added: "Politics can be far too tribal. Two politicians with different views getting into a boxing ring, shaking hands before and afterwards, and raising money together for good causes would send a much more positive message."

The challenge was issued on Friday, August 14. The Greater London Authority initially said Sir Sadiq could not attend existing Sandhurst fundraising events because of prior commitments; Birch clarified he was proposing an entirely new event at a mutually convenient time with proceeds shared between the two Mayors' causes.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service has emailed Sir Sadiq's office for a response, and Cllr Birch's letter also invites Sir Sadiq to compete in another sporting event if he prefers.

James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter