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.
Mark Neves – Red Team
Job Title: Media Sales and Marketing Coordinator
Agency: NABS
Nickname: “El Diablo”
Why did you decide to take part?
I’d never done any kind of mixed martials arts or boxing training before, and it sounded like a really cool and exciting experience. It’s a reason to really push myself physically and get into the best shape of my life.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I have zero experience in any mixed martial art or boxing. Come to think of it, I have probably only been in two or three fights in my entire life.
What’s the toughest part of training been?
It was hard getting out to outdoor cardio sessions when it really started getting cold and dark early in the evening. The early morning runs have also been tough, it takes me a little while to get going in the morning.
What do you like about it?
Sparring with one of my teams mates during training and realizing how far I have come since the beginning of the campaign
What message do you have for your opponent?
Matt, you don’t know what you are in for. I hope you don’t have too many people at the event rooting for you because I am going to embarrass you.
Matthew Newelski – Blue Team
Job Title: Web Developer
Agency: Klick Inc.
Nickname: Zero Gravity
Why did you decide to take part?
I wanted to see how far I can push myself, how disciplined I can stay with my diet and tight schedules, and of course because we’re fighting for a great cause!
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I did Karate when I was a kid, and then in my teens I did a few years of Krav Maga
What’s the toughest part of training been?
The toughest part would be juggling tight agency schedules with training sessions. Also, at the beginning it was difficult to limit your food intake to only what’s on my dietary plan.
What do you like about it?
I like the fact that I got to the best shape in my life, which gives me unlimited energy when training, working and simply living life!
What message do you have for your opponent?
Train hard, stay focused, have fun, take a few days after the fight off.
Learn more about Agency Wars IV, its boxers, coaches and training program at the event’s Facebook page.
