'Lemsips stacked up in fight week' - from hypochondria to world title contender

British light-middleweight boxer Josh Kelly has shared his inspiring journey from battling chronic hypochondria to becoming a world title contender. In an interview with BBC Sport, Kelly opened up about his struggles with health anxiety, which he described as a constant battle that affected both his personal and professional life. The 26-year-old boxer revealed that his hypochondria was so severe that he often found himself stacking up on Lemsips, a popular cold and flu remedy, even when he wasn't sick. This behavior was a coping mechanism to alleviate his anxiety about falling ill. Kelly's candid admission sheds light on the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by athletes, who are typically perceived as paragons of physical and mental strength. His journey highlights the importance of addressing mental health issues in the sports world, where the pressure to perform can exacerbate underlying anxieties. Kelly's story serves as a reminder that even those who appear to have it all together can struggle with invisible battles. His openness about his hypochondria is a step towards destigmatizing mental health issues in sports and encouraging others to seek help when needed. Kelly's transformation from a fighter battling his own mind to a world title contender is a testament to his resilience and determination. His journey is not just about boxing; it's about overcoming personal demons and emerging stronger on the other side.