Duncan Ferguson claims Newcastle ace ‘battered’ him during training ground boxing match

Duncan Ferguson, one of the Premier League’s most formidable figures, built a reputation as a no-nonsense striker who combined physical dominance with a fearless approach to the game.

The former Scotland international and Everton legend struck fear into opponents with his aggressive style and unrelenting presence on the pitch.

Though known for his powerful headers and imposing frame, Ferguson’s name became equally synonymous with red cards and on-field confrontations, earning him a spot in the record books alongside Patrick Vieira and Richard Dunne with the joint-highest number of dismissals in Premier League history—eight in total.

Despite his fearsome image, Ferguson once admitted to being humbled—not in a football match, but in a boxing sparring session with a player many would consider an unlikely opponent.

That individual turned out to be Anthony Gordon, the dynamic winger now shining for Newcastle United and representing England on the international stage.

Back when Gordon was a young academy player at Everton, he shared a close bond with Ferguson, who was then on the coaching staff and later served as interim manager.

In his autobiography, Big Dunc: The Upfront Autobiography, Ferguson candidly recounted an episode that took place at Finch Farm, Everton’s training complex.

During one of their many gym sessions, Gordon and Ferguson engaged in a casual boxing match. While Ferguson came prepared with gloves, Gordon did not—and yet, as Ferguson put it, the young Scouser “battered” him.

The incident left such an impression that Ferguson admitted he never attempted to spar with Gordon again. The striker who once struck fear into some of the toughest defenders in the league found himself on the receiving end of a harsh lesson in humility from a teenager with a lightning-quick jab and unshakable confidence.

Ferguson’s respect for Gordon runs deep. During his stint as Everton’s caretaker manager, Ferguson made it a point to give the promising youngster his senior debut in a match against Apollon Limassol.

He later handed Gordon his second appearance in a clash with Leicester City. What impressed Ferguson most wasn’t just the winger’s talent, but his insatiable hunger to improve.

Gordon’s work ethic stood out—he was the kind of player who constantly sought ways to develop, both on and off the pitch.

That drive extended beyond football. Even as a teenager, Gordon was immersed in boxing, frequently visiting gyms to spar with experienced fighters. While Ferguson admired his dedication, he eventually stepped in, warning Gordon about the risks.

“You have to stop,” he told the young player. “You can’t go to them, you’ll get hurt.” Ferguson, concerned for Gordon’s well-being, wanted to ensure that a promising football career wasn’t derailed by unnecessary injuries in the ring.

Gordon’s passion for boxing wasn’t just a passing phase—it was part of his upbringing. Raised in Liverpool, a city steeped in boxing tradition, he grew up idolizing fighters and spending time in local clubs.

During England’s Euro 2024 campaign, Gordon spoke about how the sport shaped him, admitting on BBC Radio 5 Live that boxing instilled in him an aggressive mindset and relentless determination.

He credited it with transforming his physical presence on the football field, helping him stay on his feet, battle defenders, and bring a more tenacious edge to his game.

Before discovering boxing, Gordon often struggled with physical duels, frequently getting pushed off the ball. But as he trained more, he began to channel a different kind of energy—fierce competitiveness, resilience, and a never-say-die attitude.

The discipline and mental toughness gained in the ring began to influence his performances, driving him to push harder, fight longer, and impose himself in matches in ways that previously seemed out of reach.

Now 24 years old and an England international, Gordon has evolved into one of the Premier League’s most exciting attacking talents. His blistering pace, agility, and knack for beating defenders have made him a nightmare for opposing full-backs.

Yet, behind the dazzling footwork and clever runs lies a gritty core forged through years of sparring, setbacks, and sweat in the gym.

That same edge once took down one of football’s most feared enforcers in a friendly bout—a moment that, for all of Ferguson’s battles and bravado, he remembers with surprising humility and admiration.

Today, Gordon embodies the modern footballer: technically gifted, fiercely competitive, and shaped by experiences both on and off the pitch.

And in Duncan Ferguson’s story of being “battered” by a teenage winger with no gloves on, we get a rare glimpse of the next generation outshining the old guard—not just in skill, but in spirit.