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.
Liam Herbinson – Red Team
Job Title: Business Development Manager
Agency: Kijiji
Nickname: “The Hurricane”
Why did you decide to take part?
There are a multitude of great reasons for participating in Agency Wars: supporting the excellent charities, training with the best in the business, seeing your body change as a result of strict adherence to diet and exercise – any one of these reasons is enough to justify participation in an event. When you roll them all into one opportunity, who could possibly pass it up?
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
While I don’t have any formal boxing/fighting experience, I did work as a bouncer while attending the University in Guelph. During that time I dealt with many people who thought it would be a good idea to start a fight, so I’m no stranger to having a few punches thrown my way. From what I understand of my opponent’s patterns of alcohol consumption, I think that those years of experience will come in handy.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
The toughest part of training has undoubtedly been the opportunity cost. Agency Wars is very time-consuming and after training you’re usually too tired to do anything! Even if you can summon the energy necessary to go out, you can’t drink. And you know you should run the next morning, so you end up going home early anyways. That having been said, the experience has been worth the cost!
What do you like about it?
I love the training. It’s exciting to consistently push myself beyond what I’ve ever been physically capable of doing. Motivation isn’t a problem since once you start to see some results, you really want to push yourself to that next level and see more. Getting to know my teammates and experience the camaraderie that comes from training for an event like this has also been great. Everyone has been very supportive of one another which really helps make the whole experience that much more enjoyable.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Jeff Bjarnarson – Blue Team
Job Title: Digital Integration Strategist
Agency: Stone Canoe
Nickname: The Nordic Hammer
Why did you decide to take part?
After seeing the pictures from last year’s event, I became interested and wanted to see what all the fuss was about. I also showed up just to see if they’d allow a gigantic man in the event. Turns out they did….two of ’em.
Which is good, because not since Undertaker battled Mankind in the “Hell in a Cell” event has the world been able to witness the raw carnage I’m about to bestow upon them.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I used to wrestle (see: bully) my brother when I was younger. I feel this has given me the skills and tenacity which you’ll see in the ring, assuming Mr. Herbinson bites, scratches, and then tells on me – which he has sworn not to.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
I’ll admit, the training is tough. Overall, the absolute hardest part has been the diet and giving up pizza. In fact, Pizza…if you’re reading this, I Miss You! I know we’ve had to take a bit of a break, but I’ll be home to you soon. I miss your touch… I miss your musk… I miss the way you’d compliment me looking dapper in a suit, on the way to a conference… and the warmth I felt coming home to you each and every night. You and me, we’re gonna get through this one. Together… Forever. I know you’re still angry with me after those pictures of me and a protein bar showed up on Facebook… BUT WE WERE ON A BREAK!!
What do you like about it?
Truthfully, I love that these past few months have forced me to be in the best shape of my life. My selfies have vastly improved. Thanks Agency Wars!
What message do you have for your opponent?
Liam of Kijiji – I’ve gone ahead and listed your gloves on Kijiji’s Used Sporting Goods section. And don’t worry, you’ll probably make good money as I’ve included the terms “mint condition.” Even if you wear them on Nov. 27th, they won’t be touching anything.
Learn more about Agency Wars IV, its boxers, coaches and training program at the event’s Facebook page.
