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.
Ben Lawrence – Red Team
Job Title: Broadcast Media Assistant
Company: PHD Canada
Nickname: Bun Dem
Why did you decide to take part?
It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I’ll never again be able to participate in professional boxing training, and all in 12 weeks.
What’s been the toughest part of training?
I live in Hamilton, so it’s a long day when I have to commute home after practice. It gets to be that you don’t have much of a life outside of it.
What do you like about the training?
It’s a completely new world for me! I have a general sports background, but boxing is so different. It’s the most physical chess match you’ll ever play. It’s about mental barriers and overcoming difficulties.
What message do you have for your opponent?
I’m younger, faster, smarter, better looking… It’s show time.
Mo Elabi – Blue Team
Job Title: Graphic Designer
Company: Jeffrey Simbrow Associates (JSA)
Nickname: The Hulk
Why did you decide to take part?
I wanted to participate in something I’ve never done. I’m always looking for a challenge.
What’s been the toughest part of training?
You’re changing everything you do: lifestyle, diet, routine, how you think and act, how you schedule priorities. Everything revolves around it. I pre-plan all my meals on Sunday night. I even bought a food scale!
What do you like about the training?
It’s been great health-wise. I’ve lost 15 pounds. It’s forced me to change my lifestyle. I have a four-year-old daughter, and I want to be able to run and play sports with her when I’m 40.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Hulk, smash.
