INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Legendary American boxer Sugar Ray Seales was celebrated at the Indy Shorts International Film Festival, where his remarkable journey from Olympic glory to personal resilience took center stage.

Seales, the sole American boxer to clinch a gold medal at the 1972 Olympics, shared poignant memories and reflections during an interview with WISH-TV Daybreak Anchor Jeremy Jenkins. Recounting pivotal moments of his career, Seales vividly described his historic victory over a Bulgarian opponent, highlighting the significance of his Olympic achievement.

“I carry this Olympic gold medal with me because many people have never seen one, let alone held one,” Seales remarked, emphasizing the historical weight of his accomplishment. His presence at the festival underscored the profound impact of his athletic triumph on both American boxing history and international sports.

Greg Sorvig, artistic director of the Indy Shorts Film Festival, praised Seales as a beacon of resilience and inspiration. The festival, renowned for spotlighting compelling narratives, featured a documentary showcasing Seales’ life journey, including his triumphs in the ring and the challenges he faced post-boxing.

During the interview, Seales spoke candidly about overcoming career-ending injuries and the pivotal role of Dr. Abrams in restoring his vision. His resilience and determination to persevere resonated deeply with audiences, encapsulating the essence of his message: “Be ready for anything. If you’re not in shape, you won’t make it.”

The six-day festival at Living Room Theaters and Newfields showcases 200+ splashy shorts curated into 34 themed programs. For more inspiring stories and updates from the festival, click here.