Dozens signed up for the chance to take part in the fifth edition of Agency Wars. 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. 26.
Marketing is profiling the men and women who’ve shed blood, sweat and tears for Ronald McDonald House and NABS. What makes someone step in the ring? Meet the fighters for the Red and Blue teams to find out.
Elena Safonova – Red Team
Job Title: Event and Sponsorship Manager
Agency: Ireland & Hall Communications
Nickname: The Iron Curtain
Why did you decide to take part?
Last year I attended Agency Wars IV as one of the guests, and from the minute I saw it, I knew I had to do it no matter what.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I have never participated in boxing or martial arts.
What do you like about it?
I like the challenge and self discipline that we have to follow. But most of all I enjoy being a part of the Red Team family. We all are very supportive and really are there for each other.
What’s the toughest part of training?
The toughest part of my Agency Wars V journey is the challenge of our training. It’s not just a physical challenge, it’s also mental and you just have to keep going. There are people that believe in you and you can’t let anyone down
What have you picked for your walkout song? And how is it representative of who you are as a fighter?
Eminem – Lose Yourself ! I only get one shot and can’t mess it up. This opportunity comes once in a life time – and that’s exactly what this song indicates.
What message do you have for your opponent?
Stay strong, train hard and don’t give up! We are doing it for charity and a great cause… Remember that when you lose.
Erika Casupanan – Blue Team
Job Title: Consultant
Agency: Media Profile
Nickname: Chili Pepper
Why did you decide to take part?
I wanted to prove to myself that even if you’re a petite woman who has never played a sport, it’s never too late to kick some ass.
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I casually did Muay Thai for a few months, but the intensity was never close to this.
What do you like about it?
I love training with professionals. Our trainers push us during every session. Even though that extra hill sprint or two minutes of hitting the bag may suck at the time, we’re all better off afterwards. The amazing friends I’ve made are the cherry on top.
What’s the toughest part of training?
THE DIET. I knew I was dependent on Nutella and burritos before this. I didn’t realize the extent of that dependency until I was forced to say goodbye. Now I need to put on a few pounds so I can say hello again (within reason). It’s like a crazy roller coaster with my true loves.
What have you picked for your walkout song? And how is it representative of who you are as a fighter?
I don’t want to reveal anything just yet…
What message do you have for your opponent?
Good luck.
