ZANG TUMMM TUMB ARTICLES “the first draft of history”

Boxer beat

Forget wimp rock, the thing to get into is the ring. Everywhere you look people are toughening up their image, risking life and limb — and the chance of cauliflower ears for life — by climbing into the boxing ring. Sounds like a bit of a ropey(!) idea to us, but its catching on fast. The Smiths have even written a song about it (‘Hand In Glove, dummy!) In the picture below Frankie Goes To Hollywood prepare to take on Mike Read, the BBC and possibly the world. But relax, they wont do it really…


Spandau Ballet didnt fancy the idea of actually getting into the ring, but theyre never ones to miss out on a new trend. Here Tony Hadley settles for a nice mean n moody shot with boxer John Conteh.


When the UB40 boys get in the ring they dont pussyfoot around. Brothers Ali and Robin Campbell show that theyre still good buddies despite the cuts, bruises and bumps. (Dont worry, its all done with make-up.)


Even the old ‘uns are getting in on the act. David Bowie goes for another hit. but judging by the state of his hands he hasnt quite got the hang of it.


George performs his own distinctive version of ‘Ive Got A Lovely Bunch Of Coconuts. The gloves are either the latest line in neckwear, or for fending off over boisterous fans after the show…


Would you tangle with this lady? Toyah proved she was more than a match for any man in the play Trafford Tanzi. Here, she prepares to do battle, and God help anyone who gets in her way…


One of the original boxer boys, Dig Wayne wonders whether they shouldnt have called the band JoGolfers instead. Champion British boxer Frank Bruno pulls the punches.