Entertainment Swindon

Swindonian Professional Boxing Promoter & Manager Mark Neilson, son of former professional boxer Eddie Neilson has been inducted into the Ex-Boxers Association Hall of Fame at a glitzy ceremony in Cardiff as he is recognised for his outstanding contributions to the sport.

Neilson’s journey to professional boxing promotion and management has taken huge dedication and hard work from humble beginnings that started in Swindon’s Premier Club leisure centre, to sell out White Collar events at the Meca and Swindon’s iconic Oasis, to headlining sell-out events at London’s iconic York Hall, Neilson’s rise has been truly remarkable.

Neilson’s promotional and management career is regarded as a shining example of dedication to the sport, a pivotal figure in the professional boxing world making him one of the most prolific boxing promoters in the UK, having promoted many high profile bouts and managing the careers of many of the sports rising stars.

Mark Neilson’s journey into boxing started in the shadow of his father, Eddie, who famously fought against the likes of Frank Bruno and Joe Bugner. Now one of the countries leading promotors, boxing has always been in Mark’s blood, starting from a young boy in the gym as a boxer himself, growing up watching his dad Eddie fight legends such as Joe Bugner and Frank Bruno, he has in 2024 alone overseen a range of title fights, including a high-profile IBO World Title bout.

Mark has now been recognised for his hard work, and an eye for spotting talent, upon receiving the award, Neilson said: “I am incredibly honoured to be inducted into the Ex-Boxers Association Hall of Fame.

Boxing has always been a part of my life, from the days in the gym as a young boy to managing some of the best boxers in the UK today. This recognition is a tribute not only to my hard work but also to my father, whose career inspired me to pursue this path.”

“My father’s career inspired me from a young age, and this moment is as much a tribute to him as it is to the work I’ve done in boxing.”

Eddie Neilson expressed his pride, saying, “Mark has shown immense dedication to boxing over the years, and it’s heartening to see his efforts acknowledged at such a high level.”

The Ex-Boxers Association Hall of Fame honours those who have made a significant impact on the sport, both inside and outside the ring. With this induction, Mark Neilson joins the ranks of an elite group of individuals whose contributions to boxing are celebrated and revered.