Agency Wars, the industry’s annual boxing fundraiser for Ronald McDonald House Toronto and NABS, is back.
Dozens signed up for the chance to take part in the fourth edition of the big night of fights. Over several weeks, they tested their mettle against professional coaches, strict trainers and their own physical limitations. Twenty four of those brave souls have been chosen to enter the ring at Toronto’s Arcadian Court on Nov. 27.
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? Meet the fighters for the Red and Blue teams to find out.
Alyssa Belova – Red Team
Job Title: Project manager
Agency: Publicis Modem
Nickname: Kitten Mittens
Why did you decide to take part?
I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work with the best trainers and coaches, challenge myself physically and mentally, and of course it’s all for an amazing cause!
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I trained for Agency Wars III, but sadly wasn’t able to fight due to an injury. So I’m back and there’s nothing that can keep me out of the ring this time.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
It requires a lot of lifestyle changes and you have to get used to saying “Sorry I can’t, I have to go to the gym.” Between work, training, meal prep and checking out my muscles in the mirror, there’s not much time left for anything else.
What do you like about it?
Sparring. I love being in the ring.
Who is your favourite boxer or athlete?
Mike Tyson. Not only because he’s an amazing fighter, but also because he likes pigeons and says things like “I want to rip out his heart and feed it to him. I want to kill people. I want to rip their stomachs out and eat their children.”
What message do you have for your opponent?
Meow. Hiss.
Dani Silva – Blue Team
Job Title: Project manager
Agency: Klick Inc.
Nickname: Smash
Why did you decide to take part?
It was the perfect motivator to get back into shape and it’s for a good cause.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I have trained competitively in wrestling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, but never a striking sport.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
Building up enough upper body/shoulder strength so that my shoulders didn’t feel like they were on fire after 20 minutes of training.
What do you like about it?
I love the challenge. Mentally, I have become a strong fighter because I do not get phased by punches.
Who is your favourite boxer or athlete?
I don’t really have a favourite, but I would say Georges St-Pierre because he is so well-rounded and has held a title in one of the toughest weight classes for so long.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Keep your hands up because I am head hunting!
Learn more about Agency Wars IV, its boxers, coaches and training program at the event’s Facebook page.
