Who Is Typically In A Boxer’s Entourage As They Walk To The Ring?

By Zeeshan Ali September 29, 2025 09:41

For many boxing fans, one of the most electric moments of fight night comes before the first punch is thrown: the ring walk. Music blares, the crowd roars, and a fighter makes their way down the aisle surrounded by a select group of people.

This entourage is more than just a show of support; it’s a carefully chosen team that plays both symbolic and practical roles. Even the boxing walkout songs have become legendary. So, who exactly is in a boxer’s entourage when they walk to the ring?

The Head Trainer (or Head Coach)

Front and centre is usually the head trainer, often walking right behind or beside the boxer. This person is responsible for guiding the fighter’s preparation and strategy. Their presence during the ring walk reinforces the bond between fighter and coach, and their calm demeanour helps steady nerves before battle.

The Cutman

The cutman is a crucial figure in the corner team, recognisable by their small bag of tools: Vaseline, cotton swabs, gauze, and coagulants. While they won’t be working until the fight begins, their presence signals that the boxer is fully equipped to deal with any cuts or swelling during the match.

Assistant Trainers

Many boxers are flanked by one or two assistant trainers. These individuals might handle warm-ups, water, towels, or provide additional tactical support during the fight. They also serve as morale boosters, hyping the fighter up as they head to the ring.

The Manager

The manager, often wearing a suit or a branded tracksuit, represents the business side of the boxer’s career. While they don’t work the corner in a technical sense, their presence is both supportive and symbolic; they’re there to make sure the fighter’s career runs smoothly beyond the ropes.

Family Members and Close Friends

Depending on the event and commission regulations, some fighters choose to bring a sibling, parent, or childhood friend as part of their walkout crew. This provides emotional grounding and a reminder of the personal journey behind the professional spotlight.

Security or Promotion Representatives

For big-name fighters, security staff or promotional team members may also be part of the entourage. They ensure that the fighter gets to the ring safely and that the broadcast or promotional image is on-brand.

Special Guests or Celebrities

In high-profile bouts, it’s not unusual to see a celebrity or musician walk with the boxer, especially if they performed the entrance music. This adds spectacle, hype, and media buzz to the moment.

A Mix of Practicality and Symbolism

Every person in a boxer’s entourage serves a purpose, whether it’s tactical, emotional, or promotional. Together, they create an image of strength, solidarity, and readiness. The ring walk is part theatre, part ritual, and part preparation, setting the tone for the fight ahead.

When the cameras follow a boxer surrounded by trainers, friends, and team members, fans aren’t just watching a spectacle; they’re witnessing the culmination of months of preparation, loyalty, and trust in the people chosen to stand by the fighter’s side.