Best Boxing Books: Finding the Perfect Boxing Books for You
Are you a fan of boxing? If so, you’re definitely going to want to check out some of the best boxing books out there. These books offer an in-depth look at the sport of boxing, from its history to the current state of the industry. Plus, they make for great reading material whether you’re a boxing fan or not.
This list of the best boxing books will feature the top selections and will cover a wide range of boxing stories, skills, and authors. So if you’re looking for some good reading material, be sure to check out some of these amazing boxing books.
If you are looking for more boxing-related lists, our lists of the best boxing gloves, best boxing movies, and best boxing shoes will have you covered.
Top 25 Boxing Books:
1. The Sweet Science by A.J. Liebling
Price: $13.46
About Boxing Book: A timeless collection of essays that captures boxing’s golden era. Liebling blends sharp wit with deep insight into the sport and its personalities. His storytelling makes each bout come alive. A must-read for every boxing enthusiast.
2. The Fight by Norman Mailer
Price: $13.99
About Boxing Book: This book chronicles the 1974 “Rumble in the Jungle” between Ali and Foreman. Mailer masterfully combines journalism, biography, and philosophy. It captures not just the fight, but the aura surrounding it. A brilliant take on sport and spectacle.
3. King of the World: Muhammad Ali and the Rise of an American Hero by David Remnick
Price: $12.99
About Boxing Book: An illuminating biography of Muhammad Ali’s formative years. Remnick explores Ali’s transformation from Cassius Clay into a cultural icon. The writing is rich with context and political nuance. A compelling portrait of boxing and America.
4. Hands of Stone: The Life and Legend of Roberto Durán by Christian Giudice
Price: $5.95
About Boxing Book: A gritty biography of Roberto Durán, known for his ferocity in the ring. Giudice delves into Durán’s childhood, career highs, and controversies. This book offers a raw, honest portrayal. A fascinating read on a boxing legend.
5. Undisputed Truth: My Autobiography by Mike Tyson
Price: $16.99
About Boxing Book: Mike Tyson tells his own story in this brutally honest memoir. From childhood trauma to boxing greatness and personal downfall, nothing is held back. His voice is raw and unfiltered. A revealing and unforgettable autobiography.
6. The Professional by W.C. Heinz
Price: $34.61
About Boxing Book: A literary novel that dives into the world of professional boxing. Heinz crafts a story rich in character and moral complexity. The writing is simple, elegant, and emotional. Considered one of the greatest boxing novels ever written.
7. Fat City by Leonard Gardner
Price: $9.99
About Boxing Book: A bleak and realistic look at two struggling boxers in Stockton, California. Gardner explores failed dreams and working-class despair. The prose is sparse but powerful. A beautifully tragic sports novel.
8. The Devil and Sonny Liston by Nick Tosches
Price: $30.00
About Boxing Book: This biography examines the mystery and myth surrounding Sonny Liston. Tosches combines investigative journalism with moody prose. A haunting tale of fame, fear, and conspiracy. Fascinating and unsettling.
9. On Boxing by Joyce Carol Oates
Price: $12.99
About Boxing Book: A reflective collection of essays on boxing’s brutality and beauty. Oates dissects the sport’s deeper meanings with literary finesse. Her meditations transcend mere sport. A poetic and intellectual exploration.
10. The Last Great Fight: The Extraordinary Tale of Two Men and How One Fight Changed Their Lives Forever by Joe Layden
Price: $2.99
About Boxing Book: This book tells the tragic story of Ray Mancini and Duk Koo Kim’s fateful match. Layden examines how one fight changed both men forever. It’s emotional, riveting, and thought-provoking. A powerful account of boxing’s human cost.
11. The Arc of Boxing: The Rise and Decline of the Sweet Science by Mike Silver
Price: $15.99
About Boxing Book: Silver offers a historian’s take on boxing’s rise and decline. He compares fighters across eras with deep analysis. It’s packed with nostalgia and hard truths. A great read for old-school boxing fans.
12. The Ultimate Book of Boxing Lists by Bert Randolph Sugar
Price: $13.58
About Boxing Book: A fun and informative collection of boxing’s bests and worsts. Includes rankings, rivalries, and trivia across boxing history. Sugar’s passion and humor shine throughout. A great coffee-table book for fight fans.
13. The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay
Price: $11.99
About Boxing Book: A coming-of-age novel set in apartheid-era South Africa. It follows a boy who discovers his power through boxing. Inspiring, emotional, and unforgettable. A story of resilience and the human spirit.
14. Raging Bull: My Story by Jake LaMotta
Price: $30.67
About Boxing Book: The violent and raw life of Jake LaMotta, straight from the source. LaMotta’s story inspired the classic Scorsese film. It’s filled with grit, rage, and honesty. A brutally candid autobiography.
15. Ghosts of Manila: The Fateful Blood Feud Between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier by Mark Kram
Price: $9.99
About Boxing Book: A compelling look at the rivalry between Ali and Frazier. Kram examines how their relationship shifted from mutual respect to deep animosity. It’s both intimate and historical. A must-read on one of boxing’s greatest feuds.
16. Ali: A Life by Jonathan Eig
Price: $11.73
About Boxing Book: A definitive biography of Muhammad Ali based on over 500 interviews. Eig captures the complexity of Ali’s public and private lives. Richly detailed and beautifully written. Essential reading on a global icon.
17. The Contender by Robert Lipsyte
Price: $9.99
About Boxing Book: A young adult novel about a teen boxer’s journey to self-respect. The story touches on integrity, ambition, and growing up. It’s an inspiring and relatable read. Still widely used in classrooms today.
18. Once There Were Giants: The Golden Age of Heavyweight Boxing
Price: $15.99
About Boxing Book: A nostalgic tribute to the golden era of heavyweight boxing. Izenberg profiles legends like Ali, Frazier, and Foreman. It’s packed with stories and behind-the-scenes insight. A love letter to boxing’s past greatness.
19. Championship Fighting: Explosive Punching and Aggressive Defense
Price: $12.69
About Boxing Book: Written by heavyweight champ Jack Dempsey, this manual teaches punching and defense techniques. A mix of old-school wisdom and practical advice. Great for boxers and fans alike. A timeless instructional guide.
20. Boxing Mentality: Psychological Lessons for Personal Excellence
Price: $4.99
About Boxing Book: This book explores the psychological side of boxing and combat sports. It teaches mental discipline, confidence, and focus. Useful for athletes and coaches. A short but insightful mental training guide.
21. The Art of the Sweet Science: Boxing Training for the Body and Mind
Price: $9.99
About Boxing Book: A detailed training manual that covers footwork, defense, and strategy. Mayne blends physical technique with mental preparation. Written by a seasoned boxing coach. Ideal for boxers seeking deeper knowledge.
22. Why You Suck at Boxing: Identify and Correct Common Boxing Mistakes
Price: $5.00
About Boxing Book: A humorous yet practical look at common boxing mistakes. Baier breaks down habits that hurt performance and how to fix them. Easy to read and entertaining. A fun guide for improving fundamentals.
23. Old School Boxing Fitness: How to Train Like a Champ
Price: $10.99
About Boxing Book: Learn how champs trained in the golden age of boxing. Includes workouts, routines, and training philosophy. Perfect for fitness buffs and aspiring boxers. Authentic and straightforward.
24. Boxing From Chump to Champ: A Beginners Guide to Boxing Training
Price: $5.0
About Boxing Book: A beginner’s guide to boxing that covers stance, punches, and defense. The writing is clear and motivational. A solid entry point for new boxers. Simple and effective in its approach.
25. Boxing’s Greatest Fighters
Price: $15.95
About Boxing Book: Legendary boxing writer Bert Sugar profiles the greatest fighters of all time. Includes records, rivalries, and personal stories. A beautifully illustrated book for fans of all levels. Great for learning the sport’s history.
Editor’s Pick for the Best Boxing Book
If you’re looking for the most iconic and immersive boxing read, The Sweet Science by A.J. Liebling stands out as the ultimate pick. This book isn’t just a history lesson—it’s a literary masterpiece that captures the heart, soul, and rhythm of boxing’s golden era. Liebling’s storytelling transports you ringside with wit, charm, and unparalleled insight. It’s a must-read for boxing lovers and anyone who appreciates timeless sports journalism.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Boxing Books
Do I need to be a boxer to enjoy these books?
Not at all. Many boxing books are written for general readers and cover history, culture, and human drama. Whether you’re a fan, athlete, or curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone.
Are there instructional boxing books for beginners?
Yes. Books like Championship Fighting by Jack Dempsey and Boxing From Chump to Champ offer beginner-friendly techniques, tips, and training insights.
Are autobiographies or biographies better for learning about boxers?
Both are valuable. Autobiographies offer a first-person view into the boxer’s mindset, while biographies often give more context and outside perspective.
What’s a good boxing book for motivation or life lessons?
The Power of One and Boxing Mentality are inspiring reads that explore perseverance, mental strength, and personal growth.
Which boxing book is best for teens or young adults?
The Contender by Robert Lipsyte is a classic young adult novel that teaches discipline, self-respect, and maturity through the lens of boxing.
Tips for Choosing the Right Boxing Book for You
1. Decide What You’re Looking For
Are you after history, biography, training tips, or inspiration? Choosing a focus will narrow down the best boxing books for your personal interest.
2. Explore Different Eras of Boxing
Books like Once There Were Giants and The Arc of Boxing offer deep dives into boxing’s golden ages. They’re great for fans who love the sport’s rich past.
3. Look at Writing Style
Some books, like On Boxing by Joyce Carol Oates, take a more literary or philosophical tone, while others are more factual or humorous. Choose a style that resonates with you.
4. Read Books by or About Fighters You Admire
Whether it’s Ali, Tyson, or Duran, reading their stories—through biographies or autobiographies—adds a deeper appreciation to their careers and struggles.
5. Don’t Overlook Training Manuals
Books like Old School Boxing Fitness and The Art of the Sweet Science are perfect for those who want to learn or practice boxing the traditional way.
Best Boxing Books Conclusion
These are some of the best boxing books that you should consider giving a read. Each one offers a different perspective on the sport of boxing, so you’re sure to find one that interests you.
So what are you waiting for? Start reading today and learn more about this fascinating sport.
Please make sure to comment below if you have feedback on any of these boxing books. We know that all of our readers would appreciate your comments.
