Fran Hennessy Celebrates Viral Video Success and Boxing’s Impact

Rising British boxing star Fran Hennessy has expressed her astonishment at the overwhelming response to her viral video highlighting her struggles with body image during her youth. The 20-year-old boxer, who remains unbeaten in her first six professional fights, shared the emotional video across her social media platforms, where it has garnered over 1.2 million views on Instagram alone.

The video, which features clips of Hennessy learning to skip as a child and intense training sessions in the ring as an adult, resonated deeply with viewers. In an interview with Sky Sports, Hennessy stated, “I was overwhelmed with the love and support it got. I never imagined it would be that big and I’m just blessed to have got that love and support.”

Hennessy revealed that her father encouraged her to post the video for two months, but she hesitated due to insecurities about her past. “I was a bit nervous because the young insecure girl in me was thinking, ‘I don’t want people to see me overweight, stomping when I’m skipping,'” she explained. The positive feedback from young viewers and their parents has made her feel grateful for her decision to share her story. “I even had a young kid come up to me the other day with a rope showing me how many skips she had learnt to do,” Hennessy added.

Advocating for Youth Through Boxing

In addition to her athletic pursuits, Hennessy will visit the Houses of Parliament on March 5, 2024, to discuss the significant impact boxing can have on young people’s lives. “Boxing has helped me massively. I wouldn’t be where I am now without boxing,” she remarked, recognizing the sport’s role in her personal development.

Reflecting on her academic challenges, she noted her struggles with dyslexia in school and emphasized the importance of providing support for young people. “I had an amazing upbringing; I had support from my parents—some young kids don’t have that,” she said. Hennessy aims to inspire youth to believe in their potential, whether in sports or other pursuits.

In her most recent bout, Hennessy triumphed over Gemma Ruegg at the Royal Albert Hall in London, winning by a score of 80-72 after eight rounds. This victory continues to build her reputation as a formidable contender in the boxing world.

Support for Peers in the Ring

Hennessy recently attended a high-profile boxing event at Madison Square Garden in New York, where Katie Taylor secured a majority decision victory over Amanda Serrano in their trilogy fight. Hennessy praised Taylor’s performance, stating, “It was amazing from Katie Taylor. Both Amanda Serrano and Katie have had three great fights, and fair play to both of them, but Katie cemented her legacy the other day.”

Additionally, Hennessy expressed her views on the controversial split decision that saw Savannah Marshall lose to Shadasia Green. Hennessy believed that Marshall deserved better, commenting, “I thought Savannah won the fight. After two years out, to do that I thought was brilliant… I just think it was disgusting, and she deserved a lot better than that. I believe they need to rerun the rematch.”

As Hennessy continues to carve her path in the boxing world, her advocacy for mental health and youth empowerment through sport amplifies her influence, making her a role model for aspiring athletes.