Andrew Tate, a former kickboxing champion, made his boxing debut at the age of 39, but was defeated in his first official match.
In a gala held in Dubai, the influencer and athlete faced off against Chase DeMoor, 29-year-old actor, amateur boxer and former American football player. Although Andrew Tate was seen as a heavy favorite due to his impressive kickboxing career, the match played out surprisingly.
After two close rounds, DeMoor took complete control in the third round and was declared the unanimous points winner. Post-fight footage shows Tate seriously hurt by the exchange of blows.
Reactions on social media were quick to emerge, with one of the most common comments being: “This is what happens to you when you don’t fight women”.
“I’m not afraid to lose, I’m afraid not to try”
In an emotional post-fight message, Tate explained what led him to take the fight, years after hanging up his kickboxing gloves. “When I was asked by Mams (Taylor, founder of Misfits Boxing), «Andrew, you’re 40 years old, you just got out of prison, you’ve got so much on your mind, why would you do this? Why would you take the risk?’, I felt fear for the first time in my life and I knew I had to fight. The moment I felt fear, I knew I had to do it. I cannot live doubting myself; seeds of doubt grow in forests of inaction and I don’t want that” Tate said, according to Bloody Elbow.
He added: “If I had to fight Chase again tomorrow, I would go without hesitation and believe in myself 100%, even though I know I just beat me. This is me. I’m not afraid to lose, I’m afraid not to try.”
Despite the defeat, Andrew Tate acknowledged his effort: “I’m 40 years old, I gave it my all, but it’s strong. It’s better to try and lose than not try at all“.
