Boxing: Alfie Middlemiss Swaps actor for the boxing ring
From Manchester, Middlemiss seemed destined to settle as an important face in the television of the United Kingdom before suddenly deciding to follow a totally different path.
With a showreel that includes credits on Emmerdale and Waterloo Road, his decision shocked many inside the dramatic clubs. But no, he shines through, those closest to him given his competitive series.
“Acting can be tough but it is a damn easier view of boxing,” laughs Middlemiss.
“My family and friends know how competitive I am and my father has always loved boxing, so I don’t think they fell from the chairs when they found out what I wanted to do.
“Ok, they were probably a little surprised. But not amazed or without words, I don’t think, as far as I am.
“There are more relaxing ways to earn a living, but there is something in boxing that immediately grabbed me. I think it is the pressure you have to put you underneath because, in the ring, it is only you and the other boy, so you cannot rely on anyone else.
“You have to show concentration and have a push to continue improving. You can never abandon.
“From the first moment I entered the gym attracted me. Maybe because, in my eyes, it is the final test and purest that you can ever experience.”
Middlesmiss, who played alongside Sally Lindsay and Robin Asquith in the Myster Madame Blanc, was actually a promising cricket player before deciding to wear gloves.
But long days of fielding put Middlesmiss out of sport, breaking the heart of his father who loved to participate in long games.
“It’s the polar opposite of boxing,” says Middlesmiss. “In the end I just fell in love with it. It was a gradual decline.”
