Meaning: Frank Bruno, a legendary British boxer, made this statement to shed light on the criticism he faced during his career for his innovative approach to promoting the sport of boxing. Throughout his career, Bruno was known for his charismatic personality and his ability to bring a new level of entertainment to the sport. He was not only a skilled athlete but also a showman who was unafraid to push boundaries and introduce new elements to boxing promotion.

In the quote, Bruno acknowledges that when he entered the boxing world, he introduced a new era of promotion by utilizing advertising and incorporating pantomime into his public persona. This approach was a departure from the traditional methods of promoting boxing matches, and it garnered attention and, at times, criticism from those who were accustomed to the more conventional ways of promoting the sport.

Bruno's use of adverts and pantomime was a significant departure from the norm in the boxing world. Traditionally, the promotion of boxing matches had been more focused on the athletic prowess of the fighters and the competitive nature of the sport. However, Bruno recognized the value of entertainment and showmanship in drawing a wider audience to the sport. By incorporating elements of pantomime and utilizing advertising to build his personal brand, Bruno was able to capture the attention of not just boxing enthusiasts, but also a broader audience that was drawn to the spectacle and drama he brought to the sport.

The jealousy that Bruno mentions in the quote reflects the resistance he faced from those who were entrenched in the traditional ways of promoting and participating in boxing. His innovative approach challenged the status quo and disrupted the established norms in the sport, leading to envy and criticism from some quarters. Bruno's willingness to embrace change and introduce new methods of promotion was a bold and daring move that ultimately paved the way for a more dynamic and entertaining era in boxing.

Despite the initial resistance and criticism, Bruno's impact on the sport of boxing cannot be overstated. His willingness to think outside the box and introduce new promotional strategies contributed to the evolution of boxing as a form of entertainment. His approach not only attracted a broader audience but also inspired future generations of boxers and promoters to explore creative and unconventional methods of promoting the sport.

In conclusion, Frank Bruno's quote encapsulates his pioneering approach to promoting boxing through the use of adverts and pantomime. His willingness to break with tradition and embrace innovative promotional strategies led to jealousy and criticism from some quarters, but ultimately contributed to a new era of entertainment in the sport. Bruno's impact on boxing extends beyond his achievements in the ring, as he played a pivotal role in shaping the modern landscape of boxing promotion and entertainment.