Butterbean open to boxing comeback after exhibiting off physique transformation
Boxing legend Butterbean – real name Eric Esch – has unveiled plans for a surprise return to the ring.
The 57-year-old icon, best known for his unique appearance and knockout power during the 90s, hung up his gloves in 2013 with a record of 77-10-4. Post-retirement, Butterbean once weighed slightly over 36 stone (515lbs) but has remarkably transformed his physique.
Butterbean may not have fought in over a decade but has suggested a bizarre reason to step back into the boxing ring. Taking to TikTok, Esch has proposed a pay-per-view charity golf event between US presidential contenders Joe Biden and Donald Trump – and believes he could also have a part to play.
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In the video featuring a clip of an election debate, Butterbean said: “If you really want to do something positive instead of fighting over each other, here’s my idea – we’re going to have a [golf] driving contest between Donald Trump and Joe Biden, pay-per-view for the [army veterans].
“It’s a no-brainer, it’s genius. It’s going to make a tonne of money for the vets. Come on Donald, Joe, let’s go. Hit them balls. Let’s see who can hit them furthest.”
(Image: butterbeanboxer/Instagram)
Teasing his return at the end of the video, Butterbean said: “Hey, if someone wants to set the pay-per-view up, I’ll fight on the undercard!” He reinforced his desire for a comeback in the comments, saying he is now “in [the] best shape ever”.
Butterbean’s astonishing weight-loss journey was sparked by ex-WWE star, Diamond Dallas Page, who is now a top-notch yoga trainer. A year ago, Butterbean weighed in on social media and revealed he was 303.8 lbs (21.7 stone), which meant he had lost a colossal 212 lbs (15 stone) over 18 months by working with DDP.
(Image: TikTok/@butterbeankingof4round)
This exceptional transformation was prompted by Butterbean sticking to a strict gluten and dairy-free diet while eating low-carb and high-protein meals. After shedding the weight, Esch became eligible for hip surgery and he has since called out Mike Tyson and Jake Paul since getting back to fitness, although he’s still yet to add a 92nd bout to his boxing record.
Asked about the possibility of Biden and Trump squaring off in the ring as part of his pay-per-view idea, Butterbean responded: “That would be fun also but getting money for everyone that was in the military would be great.”
