About The Campaign
Led by the Community. Backed Across Borders.
Launched in 2025, the Larry Gains Statue Campaign was established by the Gains Heritage Foundation, a UK-registered charity run by Michael Gains and Paul Simmons, great-grandsons of Larry Gains. The campaign celebrates the extraordinary life and legacy of Larry Gains, a world-class boxer whose determination and talent broke through the barriers of his time.
The campaign aims not only to honour Larry Gains’ achievements, but also to educate younger generations and the wider public about his story, his impact, and the path he paved for future generations.
The campaign is led by Michael Gains and Paul Simmons, with key support from Harry White, a respected former boxer, and Tony Gee, a renowned boxing historian and author. Together, they work through the Gains Heritage Foundation to preserve and share Larry Gains’ remarkable story and ensure it receives the recognition it deserves.
Fundraising and Community Inpact
The Gains Heritage Foundation leads and manages all fundraising for the Larry Gains Statue as its first charitable mission. All funds raised support the creation and installation of a permanent public statue honouring Larry Gains, alongside associated educational and community engagement activities.
In addition to fundraising, the Foundation and campaign team are developing community events and activities to:
Raise awareness of Larry Gains’ legacy
Celebrate sporting and cultural heritage
Engage communities across Leicester and beyond
Build long-term public support for the project
With the proud support of:
- Leicester Ex-Boxers Association
- Leicester Civic Society
- Rival Boxing Gear (Canada)
- Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage
- Boxing Canada
- African Caribbean Centre – Leicester
- Commonwealth Boxing Council
- The BLAC Awards (UK)↗
Together, we are shining a light on the journey of a man who rose from humble beginnings, made his mark in the world of boxing, and left a legacy that continues to inspire across borders and generations.
This campaign brings together communities and organisations from Canada, the UK, and beyond to honour the life of Larry Gains, a man whose story continues to resonate today.
We are proud to share that this campaign has the full support of Leicester City Council.
We are honoured to share letters of support from both Boxing Canada and the Commonwealth Boxing Council, recognising Larry Gains’s extraordinary legacy and endorsing the importance of this statue campaign.
We’re also pleased to share that the European Boxing Council has included a link to this campaign on the Recommended Links section of their website. While this does not constitute a formal endorsement, we’re thankful for the recognition and the opportunity to share Larry Gains’s remarkable legacy with a broader audience across the global boxing community.
Join Us
We welcome support from all individuals, organisations, and communities who wish to be part of this lasting tribute to Larry Gains. A man whose life continues to uplift, educate, and inspire.