Listen to this article:Boxing fans and bingo regulars had the chance to enjoy something a little different when Frank Bruno joined Buzz Bingo for a special event on Monday, 17 November. The former world heavyweight champion stepped into the bingo ring and appeared at both Buzz Bingo Enfield and Buzz Bingo Basildon for a charity night filled with laughs, fun, games and fundraising.
This one-night-only event was part of the “Battle of the Clubs”, where the two venues went head-to-head in a live bingo challenge. Ahead of the event, there was a great deal of excitement, and Frank said:
“I’m really looking forward to joining the Battle of the Clubs at Buzz Bingo Basildon and Enfield. It means a lot to see the bingo community backing The Frank Bruno Foundation. Mental health is the toughest fight of all, and the funds raised will go directly to helping people, young and old, to train their mind as well as their body. If you’re on the ropes, we’re in your corner.”
With plenty of experience in hosting charity events, the brand proved its fundraising skills earlier this year when Buzz Bingo reached its Stroke Association fundraising target.
Frank began his evening at Buzz Bingo Enfield from 6.15pm where he met players, posed for photographs, and told stories from his career. Following his time there, he travelled to Buzz Bingo Basildon for the 8.30pm charity game. Players at both clubs had the chance to take part in a special round where the winner received a signed boxing glove donated by Frank.
Regional manager Sarah Calakovic said:
“We’re thrilled to welcome Frank Bruno to Buzz Bingo Basildon and Enfield for what promises to be a knockout night of bingo, friendly rivalry, and community spirit. Bringing the two clubs together for this one-off live bingo battle and having Frank with us, while raising funds for his incredible foundation, makes it an evening to remember.”
The evening raised awareness and funds for The Frank Bruno Foundation, which exists to support people struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. Established by Frank after his own highly publicised mental health battles, the charity helps young people and adults build resilience, self-confidence, and coping strategies.
The foundation runs programmes based on a combination of physical activity and structured support. Its flagship offering is the Round by Round programme, which uses non-contact boxing training alongside education sessions about mental health. Exercise is known to improve mood and reduce stress, and members are encouraged to stay active to help manage their day-to-day challenges.
The charity also focuses on community and routine. Many people facing mental health difficulties can feel isolated. The foundation’s hub environments give members a place to build connections and share experiences in a supportive atmosphere. The team works closely with families, schools, and local groups to ensure each person receives encouragement beyond the training room.
Frank is very much directly involved in the running of the charity. He regularly visits centres, speaks with participants, and champions the importance of removing the stigma surrounding mental health conversations.
The partnership between Frank Bruno and Buzz Bingo is an excellent example of how bingo can be used to help the wider community. Bingo attracts people from very varied backgrounds, and a truly diverse crowd came to join in the fun and help raise money during Battle of the Clubs. Furthermore, attendees also had the chance to meet Frank Bruno, which ensured that it was an evening they will never forget.
Frank Bruno may have retired from professional boxing years ago, but his partnership with Buzz Bingo is going strong. Given the success of the recent event, it is highly likely that there will be more similar events in other parts of the country, so you too could have the chance to meet the boxing legend.
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