Veteran Boxer John Ryder Earmarked to Succeed Tony Sims as Matchroom Elite Boxing Gym’s Head Trainer
John Ryder, a 35-year-old retired boxer, has been tapped to assume the role of head trainer at the prestigious Matchroom Elite Boxing Gym, succeeding the respected Tony Sims.
Since his retirement in January, Ryder has been training under Sims at the gym in Essex, recently completing the necessary licensing requirements to join Sims in the corner during fight nights. Sims, who has guided several world champions, including Darren Barker, Anthony Joshua, and Joe Cordina, recognizes that he is nearing the end of his successful training career.
Sims’ Succession Plan
Sims’ strong relationship with Matchroom’s Eddie Hearn has also led to his son Charlie taking on the management of the Churchill Boxing Club in Los Angeles on behalf of the promoter. Additionally, Sims plans to eventually hand over the reins of his own gym near Matchroom’s headquarters in Brentwood to Ryder, whom he has high hopes for as a future top trainer.
“John’s come along, and retired,” Sims said. “I’m hoping John can stay with me instead of moving on; be my assistant, and eventually take over the reins of the gym.”
Sims emphasized the importance of patience as a key attribute for a successful trainer, a quality he believes Ryder possesses.
Ryder’s Transition to Top Trainer
Ryder, who competed at the highest level, including a bout against boxing great Saul “Canelo” Alvarez in 2023, is seen by Sims as the perfect successor to lead the Matchroom Elite Boxing Gym. Sims praised Ryder’s ability to connect with fighters and earn their trust, which he believes will be crucial in the transition to becoming a top-level trainer.
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