Lawrence Samuel (Larry) Gains (1900–1983) was a Canadian/ British heavyweight boxer, singer, and a decorated member of the British Army during World War II. Beyond his achievements in the ring, he was admired for his generosity, gentlemanly character, and deep connection to Leicester. Larry’s sportsmanship, elegance, and kindness earned him widespread respect, making him a truly remarkable figure in both sport and society.

 

 

In 1923, he left Toronto for England on a cattle ship, enduring a six-week journey in harsh conditions, turning down a spot on the 1924 Canadian Olympic Team to pursue professional boxing. After arriving in England, he had his first professional match. Although he lost, it marked the beginning of a remarkable career. Larry went on to fight across Europe, He participated in matches both in the United States and in his home country of Canada, earning widespread respect for his determination and skill in the ring.

Larry Gains was an international boxing legend, he returned to the UK in the 1930s. During this time, he lived in Desborough and trained at the George Hotel alongside fellow boxer Reggie Meen and others.

He later moved to Leicester, which became a key base in his boxing career. In Leicester, he achieved major victories at iconic venues such as Granby Halls and Leicester Tigers Stadium. Gains fought all around the world, showcasing his incredible talent on a global stage. Throughout the UK, he trained in many places and left a lasting legacy wherever he went, remembered not only for his sporting achievements but also for his enduring impact on the communities he touched.

 

 

Larry was one of the top heavyweights of his era. Although he won the British Empire title, the colour bar in Britain enforced from 1911 to 1948, had barred non-white boxers from competing for national titles.

Globally, an unwritten rule had effectively barred non-white fighters particularly, Black boxers from contending for the world heavyweight crown.

Yet Larry carried himself without bitterness toward the politics of his era. Despite facing discrimination, he never held onto resentment. Instead, he carried himself with dignity and resilience, and earned widespread respect.

He is one of many boxers who helped pave the way for future generations, breaking down barriers in the sport and inspiring fighters today.

Larry had a remarkable friendship with Ernest Hemingway, the famous American novelist and short story writer. A letter Larry wrote to Hemingway is preserved at the J.F. Kennedy Museum in Boston, USA.

Larry trained At the Jolly Angler Pub down wharf street, fought in major events at Granby Halls and Leicester Tigers Stadium, and often referred to Leicester as his second home.

 

 

In 1931, Larry made history by winning the British Empire Heavyweight Championship against Phil Scott at Leicester Tigers Stadium. Four years later, in 1935, he secured the World Coloured Heavyweight Championship, also in Leicester, two of the most significant milestones in his boxing career.

Another major highlight was his bout with former world champion Primo Carnera, which stood as a testament to Larry’s standing among the boxing elite of his time. Over the course of his career, he fought three times at Leicester Tigers Stadium.

"The knowledge that I was Canada's representative has spurred me on in the capitals of France and Germany - it was just the same in Leicester, which I have come to look upon as a second home." - Larry Gains

Larry Gains is a National Historic Person of Canada 🇨🇦 

Larry’s contributions to the city and the sport of boxing went beyond his victories. Larry was a key figure in the city’s community. After his famous match against Primo Carnera in London, Larry was welcomed back to Leicester with a grand parade organised by the city’s mayor.

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A statue of Larry Gains will honour his legacy, recognise his contributions to Leicester, and celebrate his role as a trailblazer in boxing. The statue will not only serve as a permanent tribute to his remarkable achievements but will also become a symbol of unity, pride, and diversity in Leicester. It will reflect the cultural and historical significance of Larry Gains’s legacy, not only within the city, but also across the shared heritage of Canada and the UK, where his life and story continue to resonate and inspire.

This campaign goes beyond celebrating one remarkable individual. It also honours the rich boxing heritage of the Midlands, recognising former boxers, including some fighters from the bare-knuckle era as well as influential trainers and promoters. Their names will be engraved on the base of the statue as a lasting tribute to their invaluable contribution to the sport.

The Midlands has a rich and proud boxing tradition that dates back to the bare-knuckle era. From those early fighters who battled without gloves to the celebrated professionals who followed, its boxers have consistently contributed to the development and popularity of boxing in the UK. Alongside them, influential trainers and promoters have played vital roles in shaping the sport’s history and nurturing new talent.

We respectfully urge Leicester City Council to approve the installation of a statue in Larry Gains’s honour, ensuring that his legacy is preserved and celebrated for generations to come.

Sign this petition today to show your support for the installation of a statue in honour of Larry Gains in Leicester!

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