Bradford 2025 exhibition shows boxing and calligraphy ‘both art’

The exhibition is told through the eyes of Mr Khan and the acclaimed calligrapher Razwan Ul-Haq, who himself was a one-time boxing trainee and lives in Bradford.

The calligraphy they have chosen for the display stretches from ninth-century works through to contemporary pieces.

Mr Ul-Haq said being part of putting the exhibition together was a “privilege”.

“I don’t think anyone has seen a similarity between boxing and calligraphy before,” he said.

“When I’m writing, I have to be absolutely precise.

“If I write a word or a dot out of place then the whole thing will lose its harmony. It’s the same with boxing – if you let your guard down you’re on the canvas.”