Dominic Harrison, the untamably energetic 27-year-old musician known as Yungblud, has found an unlikely lifeline amidst chart-topping albums and arena-filling tours: boxing. In recent interviews, Yungblud has opened up about how training in the ring has helped him find clarity, structure, and recovery, especially when grappling with mental health challenges.
From Rock ‘n’ Roll Rebellions to Ringside Reflections
Yungblud’s journey to boxing wasn’t a calculated career move; it was born out of necessity. During a period of intense struggle with his mental health, he found himself in a downward spiral, relying heavily on food and alcohol. This led to unhealthy habits and strained relationships with loved ones. It was after an intervention by his ex-girlfriend that her father, an ex-addict himself, suggested he join him at a boxing gym in New York. This gym was frequented by rock stars who had faced similar struggles with addiction, using boxing as a healthy way to get the same endorphin rush they once got from drugs.
A Turning Point: Finding Structure and Sobriety
Boxing became a catalyst for change in Yungblud’s life. He gave up regular drinking and now starts his days with training, which he says keeps him grounded for his artistic pursuits and emotional well-being. The discipline required for boxing forced him to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
“I couldn’t be out until 2 am if I’m sparring in the morning,” he explained. “I tried it, and I was spewing up by round three, with this South African dog going in on me. He was like, [stands up and throws huge air punches] BAM! ‘You were drinking last night! I can smell it!’ BAM! I told myself, ‘Never again.'”
Training with a Champion
Yungblud has doubled down on boxing this year, training regularly with former IBO welterweight champion Chris Van Heerden at LA’s Wild Card Boxing Club. These sessions have become essential for managing his anxiety, ADHD, and the pressures of living under public scrutiny.
“If I don’t go boxing, I go crazy,” Yungblud admits. “I feel clear.”
The Sweet Science: How Boxing Benefits Mental Health
Boxing’s benefits extend far beyond physical fitness; it’s a powerful tool for mental and emotional well-being. Here’s a breakdown of how boxing can be a knockout solution for the mind:
Stress Relief and Emotional Catharsis
Boxing provides a healthy outlet for stress and pent-up emotions. Throwing punches, jabs, hooks, and uppercuts isn’t just a workout for your muscles; it’s a way to shed stress and release tension. The rush of endorphins, often referred to as the “runner’s high,” can leave you feeling much calmer and more relaxed.
Anxiety Reduction
The intense focus required in boxing helps clear the mind and alleviate symptoms of anxiety. The structured nature of a boxing workout provides a constructive outlet for tension and worries, allowing individuals to reduce anxiety levels significantly.
Improved Mood and Self-Esteem
Boxing stimulates the release of endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters. Regular participation in boxing can lead to long-term improvements in various aspects of mental health, including reduced levels of chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. Mastering new techniques, surpassing personal limits, and achieving fitness goals imbue individuals with a sense of pride and accomplishment.
Enhanced Focus and Concentration
Boxing demands precision and mental attention. Every movement requires focus, helping to improve concentration and coordination. This heightened awareness translates into other areas of life, improving productivity and cognitive function.
Confidence Building
Every punch thrown is a confidence booster. As your technique improves, so does your self-assurance. Confidence gained in the ring spills over into other areas of life, making you more resilient and ready to face challenges.
Mindfulness in Motion
Boxing forces you to be present in the moment. You must be aware of your opponent, your movements, and your surroundings. This presence cultivates mindfulness, helping you to quiet your mind and reduce overthinking.
Anger Management
Boxing offers a safe and constructive way to channel anger and frustration. Rather than resorting to destructive behaviors, you can channel your anger into the bag, turning negative energy into a positive workout.
Building Resilience and Discipline
The demanding nature of boxing cultivates resilience and discipline – essential attributes for navigating life’s challenges. Athletes must endure grueling workouts, confront their fears, and persist in the face of adversity. The discipline and focus gained from consistent training can translate into other areas of life, leading to improved relationships, better stress management, and a more positive outlook on life.
Community and Connection
Boxing gyms foster camaraderie and a sense of belonging. You’re part of a team, sparring with partners, and sharing victories. The sense of belonging reduces feelings of isolation and boosts mental wellbeing.
Embracing Masculinity and Breaking Stereotypes
Yungblud has also spoken about how boxing has allowed him to explore his masculinity in a positive way. “My sexuality has been at the forefront of my career, and everyone’s wanted me to wear my dress and my make-up, but using all this energy and anger in the gym has, at this time in my life, got me really wanting to embrace my masculinity, too,” he explains.
Redefining Masculinity
Boxing has provided Yungblud with a space to redefine masculinity on his own terms. In the gym, respect and discipline are paramount. “In the gym you go around and bump gloves with anyone, because you’re all there and you’re sharing this hard-as-fuck experience,” he says. “Like, I wear a skirt on stage, but the conversation is always, ‘Alright mate, we’re sparring in five, get ready.'”
The Importance of Etiquette
Yungblud emphasizes the importance of etiquette and respect in the boxing gym. “When you walk into that gym you’ve got to go like you say hello to everyone, that’s the rule,” he explains. “Like no matter if someone’s like sparring you don’t do that but like everyone you got to be like ‘Alright hello hello hello hello hello hello hello.’ In the gym no matter if you’re fucking male female non-binary trans whatever you say hello to everyone in in the gym as a as a a thing of etiquette.”
Yungblud’s New Album “Idols”
Yungblud’s experiences in the boxing ring have undoubtedly influenced his music. His new album, “Idols,” is set to drop on August 23 and promises to be his most personal and authentic work yet. The opening song, “Hello, Heaven, Hello,” is a nine-minute epic that reflects his journey of self-discovery.
“This album is more Dom than I have ever been since I was 19 and started Young Blood,” he explains.
Bangover
To keep his back strong for the headbanging demands of his performances, Yungblud relies on his boxing training. He even jokes about the “bangover” – the headbanging hangover – that can occur after overdoing it on stage.
Boxing as Therapy for Artists
Yungblud sees boxing as a form of therapy, a way to process his emotions and channel his energy. He describes having internal conversations while exhausted on the punch bag, finding a raw and real connection to his inner self. For him, traditional therapy felt like being interviewed, while boxing allows for a more authentic and cathartic release.
Mental Health Advocacy
Both Yungblud and his boxing trainer, Chris Van Heerden, are passionate advocates for mental health. By sharing his story, Yungblud hopes to inspire others to find healthy ways to cope with their own mental health challenges.
Where to Catch Yungblud Live
Fans can catch Yungblud on his upcoming world tour, which kicks off in Denver on August 28. He will also be performing his only UK show at Bludfest on June 21.
Tour Dates
- June 21, 2025 – Bludfest, National Bowl (Milton Keynes, UK)
- July 5, 2025 – Rock Werchter (Werchter, Belgium)
- July 11, 2025 – The Dome (Liverpool, UK)
- July 13, 2025 – The Prospect Building (Bristol, UK)
- July 18, 2025 – Ilosaarirock (Joensuu, Finland)
- July 19, 2025 – Electric Castle Festival (Bontida, Romania)
- August 6, 2025 – Open Flair (Eschwege, Germany)
- August 7, 2025 – Rocco del Schlacko (Saarbrücken, Germany)
- August 9, 2025 – Taubertal Festival (Rothenburg, Germany)
- August 16, 2025 – Summer Sonic Tokyo (Chiba, Japan)
- August 17, 2025 – Summer Sonic Osaka (Osaka, Japan)
IDOLS World Tour (North America)
- Aug 23, 2025 – Hollywood Palladium (Los Angeles, CA)
- Aug 24, 2025 – The Observatory North Park (San Diego, CA)
- Aug 26, 2025 – The Union (Salt Lake City, UT)
IDOLS World Tour (Europe)
- Oct 4, 2025 – AFAS Live (Amsterdam, NL)
- Oct 5, 2025 – Forest National (Brussels, BE)
- Oct 7, 2025 – Mitsubishi Electric Halle (Düsseldorf, DE)
A Champion for Mental Health
Yungblud’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of boxing. By embracing the discipline, focus, and emotional release that boxing provides, he has not only improved his physical health but also found a lifeline for his mental well-being. His story serves as an inspiration to anyone struggling with mental health challenges, proving that with the right tools and support, it is possible to find clarity, strength, and resilience in the face of adversity.
