At Suzi Wong, we’ve always believed boxing is more than just a sport – it’s a show. When a fighter steps through the ropes, they’re not only there to perform in the ring; they’re there to put on a spectacle. And nothing says “big fight night” like a custom-made kit built for champions.
From Adlington to the World Stage – Behind the Scenes at Suzi Wong
Recently, the Lancashire Post came to our workshop in Adlington, Chorley, to see where the magic happens. Our Creative Director, Melissa Anglesea, shared the Suzi Wong story – from humble beginnings to dressing some of the biggest names in boxing.
A Family Affair
It all started with a problem to solve. Melissa’s parents, both experienced in sportswear, were looking for boxing shorts for a sponsored fighter. Nothing on the market fit the bill, so they headed to a fabric shop, bought some material, and made their own. One pair led to another – and the rest, as they say, is history.
From those early days, we were working with the likes of Ricky Hatton, Anthony Farnell, Stephen Foster Jr, Michael Gomez and Jamie Moore, right in the heart of Manchester’s booming fight scene. Those fighters inspired a new generation of amateurs – and thanks to the rise of the internet, our work was soon being seen worldwide.
From Simple Shorts to Show-Stopping Creations
In the early days, boxing shorts were usually plain – think Mike Tyson’s iconic black trunks or Muhammad Ali’s black-and-white. We changed that. We started experimenting with fabrics, trims, Swarovski crystals, and embroidery to create something spectacular.
Boxing is entertainment, and like any theatre production, the costume matters. Fighters want to feel special when they walk to the ring – and we’re here to make that happen.
Over the years, we’ve worked with fighters who trust us completely. Sometimes they’ll just give us a colour to match their boots, a budget, and let us handle the rest. Some of the biggest names in the sport don’t even see their fight kit until it’s delivered.
Kits for Champions
- Tyson Fury – We’ve been making his kits since he was an amateur. His rise to the top has been incredible to watch.
- Josh Warrington – A proud Leeds fan, most of his kits nod to the club’s colours and style.
- Lewis Richardson – For the Olympic bronze medallist, we built a kit showcasing the iconic rings with a bronze undertone.
- Dillian Whyte – One of our most extravagant pieces, featuring 40,000+ hand-placed Swarovski crystals and spiked shoulder details.
- Michael Conlon – Known for luxury robes that can take over a week just to embroider.
From velvets and faux leathers to faux furs and anything sparkly, we source the finest materials to create truly unique fightwear. Every piece is handcrafted here in Lancashire, combining traditional skills with cutting-edge design.
25 Years of Craftsmanship
We’ve spent over 25 years perfecting our craft. Whether it’s for an amateur stepping into the ring for the first time or a world champion defending their belt, our goal is the same – to make them feel like they own that stage.
As Melissa says:
“We’re complete masters at what we do now. Boxing kits are part of the show, and we’re here to make sure fighters look – and feel – like champions.”
📺 Watch the Lancashire Post video feature here: Suzi Wong Boxing Shorts – YouTube
