SABIFF 2025 Presents “RETURN TO YOUR CORNER"

RETURN TO YOUR CORNER

This feature documentary explores the life of Africa's first boxing world champion. Battling Siki hailed from Senegal during the colonial era with his title recorded under his colonial ruler. Despite facing severe racism, he used it to promote himself, and stood up at a time when few dared. Love boxing? You'll be amazed by the life of Siki!

EVENT DETAILS

Who was the first Boxing World Champion from Africa?

Why do so few people know his name?

Sadly few know his name even in Africa because Battling Siki was a World Boxing  Champion during the colonial era and so his world title is recorded as belonging to his colonial ruler.  Siki faced severe racism during his career, but utilized the very thing used against him to promote himself and his fights. He stood up to racism and stood his ground. Overcoming societal challenges at a time of immense segregation, his life was a whirl-wind up until the very end at the age of 28 when he refused to throw a fight. 

Siki was buried in New York, but in 1993 his remains were returned to Senegal.

ABOUT THE FILM MAKER

English-raised, Australian-based Ashley Morrison is a sports commentator, author and documentary filmmaker. All three of his previous films have picked up awards around the world.

His focus is close to home in terms of his films relating to sporting figures, but in each there is an underlying message. These are not simply films focussing on an individual. They are films looking at people who were far greater than their sporting achievements, true leaders in a world that has sadly often forgotten them.

Below is the film maker’s Photo:

SABIFF 'Sunday Glory' Movie Matinees at the Carver Library

Join us for our monthly matinees, featuring original Black independent films that celebrate our shared humanity. These films, by, for, -and/or- about the African Diaspora, include narratives, animations, student films, and music videos. Each screening is followed by a communal discussion, with occasional filmmaker visits or panel talks.

This is a free event open to the public.  Donations are accepted & appreciated.

The SA Public Library Carver Branch is ADA compliant with wheelchair accessibility.

Host or Publisher San Antonio Black International Film Festival, (SABIFF)