The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word FIGHTERS
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Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "They like to box" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case they like to box = fighters.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 FIGHTERS mean?
FIGHTERS noun- A person who fights; a combatant.
- A warrior; fighting soldier.
- A pugnacious, competitive person.
- (eulogistic) A person with a strong determination to resist protracted or severe adversity, especially illness.
- A class of fixed-wing aircraft whose primary purpose is that of shooting down other aircraft. Some of these (Fighter-Attack or Attack aircraft) also have a secondary purpose of attacking ground targets.
- A boxer or participant in any martial art.
- A firefighter
- A game with a focus on physical combat.