Champion's Blood

The human body is the most beautiful of God’s creations. In front of the mirror like this, naked, except for his protective cup, Dylan Johnston admires every rippling muscle on his body: his calves, thighs, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and neck. He stretches his arms. Long and slender, they will seek and find the perfect target: his opponent’s jaw, and his arms will become conductors, releasing a bolt of energy through his fists, strong enough to reduce his opponent to the canvas for the ten-count.

Dylan Johnston, the light heavyweight boxing champion of the world and a marathon runner, has never taken a wrong step in his life, until a little known boxer and former gang member challenges him for his title, and he learns that life isn't about how you look, how good you are at your sport, or how many admirers you have.

To add insult to injury, a brilliant and beautiful woman steps into the boxing gym and gives him the burden of fear and mistrust.