Michael Benson: A Prominent Force in Boxing Journalism and Social Media
Michael Benson has carved out a reputation as one of the most influential figures in boxing journalism. With a career spanning over a decade, Benson’s work has been at the intersection of sports media and digital content creation. From his early days as a sports writer to his current role as the Head of Social Media at Ring Magazine, Benson has established himself as a leading authority in the world of combat sports. In this article, we will explore Benson’s journey, his educational background, career milestones, and his impact on the boxing community.
Early Life and Education
Michael Benson’s career in sports journalism started at a young age. As a teenager, Benson was already focused on a career in the media. His passion for sports and writing led him to gain valuable hands-on experience in sports journalism, starting with a summer internship at talkSPORT, the UK’s largest sports radio station. This internship would be the first step toward a distinguished career.
While working at talkSPORT, Benson was also pursuing his education. In 2015, he enrolled in the National Council for the Training of Journalists (NCTJ) Distance Learning Level 3 Diploma in Journalism. This course, completed through distance learning, allowed Benson to hone his skills in various core subjects, including reporting, media law, public affairs, shorthand, and e-portfolio. Additionally, he focused on sports journalism and online video journalism, ensuring his academic background complemented his practical experience in the field.
Breaking into Sports Journalism
Benson’s journey into the world of sports journalism began in 2013 when he worked part-time as a football writer for Shoot Magazine. His role involved covering the U21s Premier League and producing match reports, a crucial step in his early development as a journalist. Benson’s dedication and passion for sports journalism were evident even at this early stage.
His work as a part-time reporter led him to the prestigious opportunity of working at talkSPORT. At just 18 years old, Benson secured a two-month internship with talkSPORT, which quickly turned into a full-time position. Over the next decade, Benson worked his way up the ranks at talkSPORT, starting as a general sports writer and progressing to the role of Online Boxing Editor.
Experience at talkSPORT
Benson’s time at talkSPORT was pivotal in shaping his career. As the Online Boxing Editor, Benson played a key role in elevating boxing coverage to new heights. He proved that boxing could generate substantial audience engagement, matching the popularity of mainstream sports like football. Through his hard work and strategic vision, Benson was able to drive remarkable growth in online boxing coverage, attracting large audiences and increasing page impressions.
In his final role at talkSPORT, Benson became the Combat Sports Editor, overseeing the boxing and MMA teams. His leadership in these roles demonstrated his ability to manage content across different platforms and to produce high-quality, engaging stories that resonated with boxing fans worldwide.
Transition to Ring Magazine
In January 2025, Benson took a bold step in his career by joining Ring Magazine as the Head of Social Media. This role marked a significant shift for Benson, allowing him to combine his extensive experience in journalism with his passion for social media and digital content creation. As Head of Social Media, Benson manages a team responsible for producing and distributing content across Ring Magazine’s various social media platforms.
Ring Magazine, known as “The Bible of Boxing,” is one of the most respected and authoritative publications in the world of boxing. Benson’s expertise in both boxing journalism and social media strategy has helped the magazine reach a broader audience, including younger generations of boxing fans who are increasingly active on social media platforms.
The Role of Social Media in Boxing Journalism
Benson’s work at Ring Magazine highlights the growing importance of social media in the world of sports journalism. In today’s digital age, boxing fans are consuming content through social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. By managing Ring Magazine’s social media presence, Benson has been able to tap into the power of these platforms, offering fans a mix of breaking news, fight analysis, and behind-the-scenes content.
Benson’s ability to engage with boxing fans on social media is one of the reasons why he is considered a leading voice in the industry. Through his strategic use of platforms like Twitter, Benson has been able to break major news stories and create a space for fans to discuss and debate the latest developments in the sport.
Michael Benson and Boxing Coverage
Benson’s deep knowledge of boxing is evident in his coverage of major boxing events. He has written extensively on the biggest fights in recent years, including high-profile bouts such as Tyson Fury vs. Deontay Wilder and Oleksandr Usyk vs. Anthony Joshua. As a journalist who understands both the technical aspects of the sport and the entertainment value of boxing, Benson’s reports provide fans with insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of the sport.
In addition to his written work, Benson has appeared on radio shows and podcasts, further solidifying his status as a go-to expert in the boxing community. His ability to analyze fights, predict outcomes, and provide expert commentary has earned him the respect of both fans and professionals in the boxing world.
Challenges and Achievements
Michael Benson’s career has not been without its challenges. The transition from a general sports writer to a combat sports expert required Benson to immerse himself fully in the world of boxing. Over time, he built a solid understanding of the sport’s history, its prominent figures, and the intricacies of each fight. His ability to grow his audience and maintain credibility in a highly competitive field is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
One of Benson’s most notable achievements came during his tenure as Online Boxing Editor at talkSPORT. Under his leadership, boxing coverage at talkSPORT reached new heights, with the sport becoming a major draw for online audiences. His influence in the boxing world also led to his recruitment by Ring Magazine, a publication that recognized his expertise and ability to manage social media content effectively.
Conclusion
Michael Benson’s career in boxing journalism has been marked by steady growth, impressive achievements, and a deep commitment to the sport. From his early days as a part-time reporter to his current role as Head of Social Media at Ring Magazine, Benson has proven himself to be a versatile and influential figure in sports media. His ability to combine his love for boxing with his expertise in social media has allowed him to stay at the forefront of the industry.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Benson’s role in shaping the future of boxing journalism and social media is undeniable. Whether he’s managing content at Ring Magazine or providing expert commentary on the latest boxing events, Michael Benson remains one of the most prominent voices in the world of combat sports.
