Cryptic crossword clue
Taking on ace performing boxing exercise 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ADOPTING

I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
A
D
O
P
T
I
N
G

Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Taking on" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case taking on = adopting.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does ADOPTING mean?

ADOPTING verb
  1. To take by choice into relationship (a child, heir, friend, citizen, etc.)
  2. To take or receive as one's own what is not so naturally.
  3. To select and take or approve.
  4. To win ten consecutive games against an opponent

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