In this week's Criminal Connection Podcast, we had the privilege of sitting down with El Paco, a bare-knuckle fighter and member of the travelling community in Dublin, Ireland. His journey from a tumultuous upbringing to the disciplined world of bare-knuckle boxing is a story of resilience, grit, and redemption. Let’s delve into the remarkable life of El Paco, shedding light on his experiences and offering insights for those facing their own battles.
Growing Up Amid Feuds and Firearms
El Paco’s childhood was shaped by a backdrop of violence and family feuds. "I was basically brought up in the middle of a feud," he shared, recounting memories of uncles and aunts running frantically as shots were fired between rival families. This chaotic environment instilled in him both a sense of loyalty and a fiery resilience.
Although the feuds were ostensibly over minor disputes, such as a misunderstanding over a bicycle, they escalated into years of turmoil. El Paco’s family eventually relocated to another part of Dublin, but the scars of those early conflicts remained.
"Just because you come from a bad place doesn’t mean you’re a bad person," he reflected, highlighting the strength it took to rise above his circumstances.
Life in Darndale: The Good, The Bad, and The Gritty
Darndale, a working-class area in Dublin, became the backdrop for much of El Paco’s teenage years. Known for its challenges, including drug use and violence, Darndale also fostered strong community ties and resilience. For Paco, the area was both a testing ground and a source of pride.
"Darndale is a beautiful place. It’s as mad as they come, but there are good people here," he noted.
Despite the adversity, El Paco’s love for his community and its people shines through. However, his teen years were far from easy. Bullied for being a traveller, he learned to fight back, both figuratively and literally. Boxing became an outlet, allowing him to channel his aggression productively.
From Petty Hustles to Organized Crime
In his late teens, El Paco turned to selling small amounts of cannabis to make ends meet. What started as a way to earn a few hundred euros a week quickly escalated into involvement with more dangerous substances and networks.
"It was simple at first, selling a few bags of weed, but then you see the money others are making from harder drugs, and you get tempted."
His involvement in the drug trade brought inevitable confrontations, debts, and dangerous situations. To collect unpaid debts, Paco admitted to resorting to extreme measures, often using intimidation tactics. He also surrounded himself with a mix of loyal allies and volatile enforcers who further complicated his life.
The Turning Point: Loss and Reflection
The deaths of close friends and family members marked a pivotal chapter in Paco’s life. The murder of his friend Jordo, who was shot in front of his young child, was a traumatic event that haunted him for years.
"He put his body around the pram to protect his child. He was shot five times right in front of me."
Compounded by the deaths of his grandparents, other close friends, and his cousin, these losses drove Paco into a downward spiral of substance abuse and mental health struggles. Diagnosed with PTSD and bipolar disorder, he eventually sought therapy, which helped him begin to process his trauma.
Rediscovering Purpose: The Road to Bare Knuckle Boxing
Through sheer determination, Paco began to rebuild his life. Boxing, which had been a part of his early years, became his salvation. Drawn to the raw, unfiltered nature of bare-knuckle boxing, he found a sport that mirrored his own grit and resilience.
Bare-knuckle boxing, deeply rooted in traveller culture, requires not only physical strength but also immense mental toughness. Paco’s training regimen involves intense conditioning, long sparring sessions, and mental preparation. His signature move? A devastating left hook to the body.
"It’s not just about fitness; it’s about heart and determination. You either have it or you don’t."
Paco’s journey into organized bare-knuckle boxing has given him a new lease on life. Fighting in venues, under structured rules, and for cash prizes, he now sees the sport as both a passion and a livelihood.
Lessons Learned and Words of Wisdom
El Paco’s journey is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for transformation. For those facing challenges, he offers a simple yet profound piece of advice:
"Just because you come from a bad place doesn’t mean you have to stay there. Use your struggles to make you stronger."
He emphasizes the importance of staying humble, respecting others, and striving for better. Whether through boxing, personal growth, or supporting his family, Paco’s story inspires resilience and hope.
The Future: Family, Glory, and Legacy
Now a father of two, Paco’s focus is on creating a better future for his children. His mother’s passing, a year ago, remains a source of deep pain but also motivation. He sees his life’s mission as ensuring her sacrifices were not in vain.
"I promised myself I wouldn’t let my mother’s death be in vain. I’m going to make something of my life for her."
With his sights set on titles in bare-knuckle boxing and aspirations of providing for his family, Paco’s journey is far from over. He is determined to prove that anyone, regardless of their past, can achieve greatness with hard work, discipline, and self-belief.
Conclusion
El Paco’s story is one of survival, transformation, and relentless pursuit of a better life. From his tumultuous childhood to the discipline of bare-knuckle boxing, he exemplifies resilience in the face of adversity. For those who feel trapped by their circumstances, Paco’s journey offers a powerful reminder: no matter where you start, it’s where you’re headed that counts.
As he steps into the ring for his next fight, we’ll be watching closely, rooting for a man who’s fighting not just for glory but for redemption.