The Man's French connection

At the gym of the fighter's father, Tony, to film a documentary on the role of boxing in the inner-Sydney suburb of Redfern, Audic was struck by just how revered Mundine is within his community - and just how much he gives back.

"Anthony says he is a figurehead for his community and that is really true," the Parisian says.

"When he trains in Redfern so many people come out and support him. He gives a lot to the community and they love him for it." 

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PHOTOS: See Audic's photo essay of Mundine
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Audic, who arrived in Australia five months ago, met Mundine while shooting his documentary. He is now in Brisbane for tonight's much-awaited fight between The Man and Daniel Geale at Boondall, having been invited to follow Team Mundine, which includes rookie fighter Sonny Bill Williams, in the lead-up to the bout.

"I started talking with his father Tony and we decided that I should follow them during the last days of the preparation for the fight," Audic says.

"I have become really keen on boxing, just seeing how important it is for the community. The gym club, for a lot of kids, is a really important place for them. It gives them something to do."

Audic, who has previously had a book published showcasing photos from his journey through southern Russia and the Ukraine, is reaching into a new area with his latest set of pictures.

"I'm not a sports photographer but I've discovered that boxing is a really interesting sport," he says.

"It's a question of physicality, of course, but the psychological part is just as important - you have to challenge yourself and keep the faith.

"I choose to shoot in black and white because for me it's more true, more authentic...it's a better way to show how this sport is beautiful.''

To see more of Yann's photos, see www.flickr.com/yannaudic or www.yannaudic.com.

Source: www.brisbanetimes.com.au/sport/the-mans-french-connection-20090527-bn41.html