Former Wales rugby international, Lou Reed, has embarked on a surprising new career path post-retirement, and it involves providing security for boxing legend Tyson Fury. Reed, a towering figure at 6ft 7in, decided to hang up his rugby boots at the age of 30 due to injuries and the toll it took on his body. After a brief stint in medical sales, he found himself in the intriguing world of security, rubbing shoulders with some of boxing’s biggest names.
In a recent podcast appearance alongside his former teammates Ellis Jenkins and Alex Cuthbert, Reed shared insights into his transition from rugby to security work. Despite the drastic change, he expressed no regrets about leaving rugby behind. Reed described his role as a mix of medical sales and security, a challenging yet fulfilling combination. His journey into security began with an unexpected email to a contact in charge of Wimbledon security, leading him to the world of high-profile events and personal protection.
As part of Tyson Fury’s security team, Reed’s responsibilities include providing security for the renowned ring announcer, Michael Buffer, during events in Riyadh. Drawing parallels between his security work and rugby, Reed highlighted the importance of pre-empting situations and ensuring smooth operations during high-pressure events. He emphasised the military-like precision required in running security at major fights, where any misstep could jeopardise the entire operation.
While Reed is just one cog in Fury’s security setup, he has developed a close bond with the heavyweight boxer. Their physical resemblance even led Reed to stand in as Fury’s body double for an energy drink advert. Despite the demanding nature of his new career, Reed seems to relish the challenges it presents, finding fulfilment in the varied responsibilities and the camaraderie within the security team. His experience in security has proven to be both rewarding and eye-opening, offering a new chapter in his professional life post-rugby.
Reflecting on his retirement from rugby, Reed acknowledged the difficulty of finding a new purpose initially but expressed contentment with his decision to move on from the sport. Having contemplated retiring from a younger age due to the physical demands of rugby, Reed found closure in his decision to step away from the game. Now fully immersed in his security role, he has discovered a new sense of purpose and enjoyment in a career that continues to challenge and inspire him.
In conclusion, Lou Reed’s journey from rugby player to Tyson Fury’s bodyguard showcases the diverse pathways that athletes can explore post-sporting career. His transition into the high-pressure world of security highlights the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in new endeavours. Reed’s story serves as a testament to the opportunities that can arise when athletes embrace change and pursue unexpected paths, finding fulfilment and satisfaction beyond the confines of their original profession.