At the iconic Wild Card Boxing Club in Los Angeles, actress Selma Blair has embarked on a new chapter in her journey, training with legendary coach Freddie Roach. The 52-year-old star, known for her resilience in facing multiple sclerosis (MS), shared her experience through social media posts featuring the beloved Rocky theme music.
Blair, who was diagnosed with MS over six years ago, expressed her enthusiasm about working with Roach, a renowned figure in the sport who previously coached boxing great Manny Pacquiao. “Thank you to the incredible @wildcardboxingclub and @freddieroach. Day one. My life is about to get even better. I’m honored,” she wrote in her Instagram caption.
Speaking to US Weekly about her new venture, Blair shared her dedication despite being new to the sport. “It is great. Obviously, I couldn’t be more novice, but I take it really seriously and I really want to be a good fighter,” she revealed.
The actress particularly emphasized her admiration for Roach’s inspiring journey. “There’s something about Freddie Roach, knowing that he is such a fighter and has done really well with himself, neurologically,” she said. “Just staying in his presence and staying in his strength, and to be able to learn something from someone who’s a true master.”
Blair’s goals extend beyond basic training. She aims to “be in good shape” while focusing on improving her balance and coordination. “So, it’s really about stamina and trying to increase being awake for all the things I have,” she explained.
The actress also spoke about her 13-year-old son Arthur, whom she shares with former partner Jason Bleick, describing him as “so tough.” She credits him as an inspiration: “Seeing how strong he is, how good he is at things, it was inspiring.”
Currently in remission, Blair maintains an optimistic outlook. “I’m safe now. I am relapse-free right now. I’m at [this] stage long enough with me being relapse-free that I’m just kind of living in the fumes of some old damage. I feel confident that I’m not gonna fall apart if I push myself. And that’s just confidence.”
