Adrien Broner, known as “The Question,” is preparing for his big match on June 7 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida. The fight against Blair Cobbs marked Broner’s return to the ring after a year-long hiatus. His last fight took place on June 9, 2023, defeating Bill Hutchinson by unanimous decision. However, the months following the victory were overshadowed by serious illness. On September 6, 2023, Broner’s longtime coach, mentor, and father, Mike Stafford, passed away, leaving a void in the world champion’s life and career.
“This is for you, Coach Mike.”
Broner has spoken out about his dedication to Stafford’s memory in the months leading up to his next challenge. “R.I.P. Coach Mike, this next round is for you. I love you. I will win again!” Broner’s games, practices, and time spent with Stafford show the depth of the relationship between them.
In a touching scene, skipping rope in hand, Broner expressed his gratitude: “You are more than a coach to me.” Stafford’s voice growled, urging him to continue as a sign of his will. “This is what saved my life!” Broner called out, summing up Stafford’s tremendous power over him.
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Notable feat: Mike Stafford’s legacy
Mike Stafford’s incredible career is etched in the annals of boxing history. In 1994, he won the Young Detail Developer of the Year award. His influence in the sport was further enhanced when he was named “National Coach of the Year” by the US Olympic Committee three years in a row (2003, 2005 and 2007). He participated as a member of the training team at the 2004 Athens and 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics.
Stafford’s influence goes beyond individual accolades. Under his guidance, many world champions have trained, including Jamel Herring, Devon Alexander, Robert Easter Jr., Raushi Rauâshee Warren, and Adrien Broner. His commitment to the community, especially his work with children, will be remembered by all who knew him.
Thanks to the boxing community
As Broner prepares for the upcoming game, he’s not the only one celebrating Stafford’s legacy. The boxing community rallied behind him, supporting and sharing memories of the legendary trainer. Terence Crawford, the first-ever men’s division two champion, reminded Broner to stay focused. “He looked and smiled before. Keep it up, @adrienbroner,” Crawford urged. Former IBF super middleweight champion Caleb Plant praised Stafford for his excellence as a person and coach: “Thank you, Coach Mike. A good person, and a good coach.”
Olympic bronze medalist and former IBF super middleweight champion Andre Dirrell expressed his expectations for Broner’s performance: “I love this, man! I’m ready for the show all the time. RIP Coach Mike.”
Sports journalist and YouTube blogger Elie Seckbach and super middleweight boxer Demond Nicholson offered their condolences, calling Stafford “the greatest athlete ever”.
The entire PBC Family would like to extend our condolences to friends and family of Mike Stafford, one of the greatest trainers to emerge from the boxing-rich state of Ohio, who recently passed away at the age of 67. pic.twitter.com/JZv2NDPnuc
— Premier Boxing Champions (@premierboxing) September 7, 2023
In Memory of Mike Stafford
His brother, Gary Stafford, explained in an article in the Cincinnati Enquirer, that Mike Stafford’s journey into boxing was an accident. At first, Stafford was not interested in sports, but a friend introduced him to boxing, and he found his calling. Over the years, he has been a guiding light for many boxers, accompanying many from the humble beginnings to the pinnacle of their careers. Stafford’s strong support and guidance have helped shape the careers of many leaders. His legacy is a testament to his passion, love of sports, and profound impact on the lives of his students.
When Adrien Broner steps into the ring on June 7th, the memory of Mike Stafford will be the leader. The outpouring of support from the boxing community reflects the lasting mark Stafford left on the sport and those who knew him. This fight is dedicated to the man who made his career, not just another fight for Broner, but a tribute to a mentor, father, and close friend. Broner is still going strong but with the support of Mike Stafford, who has put him on top. The world watched, and somewhere, Stafford smiled, proud of the hero he helped build.
