Twelve weeks, 27 fighters, 12 match-ups, one night: Agency Wars is back. The third annual boxing tournament is set to rock Arcadian Court in Toronto on Dec. 5 to help raise money for Ronald McDonald House Toronto and NABS. A crowd of brave volunteers from Canada’s marketing and media industry endured a rigorous training regimen and strict assessments from some of Canada’s top boxers. That initial group was cut down to 27 “lucky” combatants, who were broken into two teams – Red and Blue – to take part in a grueling three-month program, readying their minds and bodies for the big night.
Leading up to the event, Marketing is profiling the men and women who’ve shed blood, sweat and tears to help out two charities. What makes someone step in the ring? Read on and find out.
Greg Boychuk – Red Team
Job Title: Illustrator
Agency: BBDO/Proximity
Nickname: The Dynamo
Why did you decide to take part?
Two reasons. One was to train with [Olympic bronze medalist] Chris Johnson. And the other was to set a goal for myself to exercise and work towards that goal.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
Being consistent. Training almost every night and then eating well and then going to bed early because you’re so tired, then going to work and then doing it again. The training is tough, but doing it day after day is probably the toughest.
What do you like about it?
It’s really high-quality training, working with the boxing instructors, fitness training and nutritionist.
How have you been doing with the dietary restrictions?
I have been eating healthier, but I can’t say I only eat flax seeds and spinach.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Just go out there and have a good match and have a good time.
Andrew Gray – Blue Team
Job Title: Digital Specialist
Agency: OMD
Nickname: 50 Shades
Why did you decide to take part?
I’ve always been fairly physically active and I thought it would be a great challenge and a great opportunity to work with some knowledgeable trainers. And it’s for a good cause.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
Learning the basics and getting my head wrapped around all the technique that’s involved, because there are so many things to remember when you’re boxing.
What do you like about it?
I have a couple friends on my team, so training with them and just the motivation is really cool. I’ve met a lot of people from different aspects of [the industry] and it’s cool to go through this whole experience together.
Has this experience made you more interested in boxing as a sport?
Definitely. I’ve been watching a lot of videos [of amateur fights] and I never realized how much technique and how much work they put in to prepare for these boxing events. But there’s so much training involved and you have to be in such good shape.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Don’t underestimate me. I’m going hard and I’m coming for you.
You can learn more about Agency Wars III, the boxers, coaches and their training program at the event’s Facebook page.
