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.
Melanie Chiriboga – Red Team
Job Title: Account Executive
Agency: Anomaly
Nickname: Tanquesito
Why did you decide to take part?
I’ve loved boxing as a sport since I can remember and at the end of the day, all the money raised is going to two great causes. When else am I going to be able to say that I’m going to punch someone in the face for a good cause?
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I was an alternate last year, so this is my second run at training with Rico and Mark. You’d think it would be easier the second time around, but it’s been challenging each and every week.
What do you like about it?
My favourite part about training has been the sparring. I get this adrenaline rush when I’m in the ring that makes me feel like nothing can stop me from knocking out my opponent.
What’s the toughest part of training?
The worst would be the day after a sparring session. After taking a few punches to the head and body during a couple of rounds, the next day is definitely a tough one on your body.
What have you picked for your walkout song? And how is it representative of who you are as a fighter?
I’ve picked The Champ Is Here by Jadakiss. It speaks to exactly what I’m looking for on November 26th — a win, champ status.
What message do you have for your opponent?
We may be really great friends, but for six minutes on November 26th, I’ll be ready for a fight.
Joanna Catalfo – Blue Team
Job Title: Account Executive
Agency: Leo Burnett
Nickname: Mighty Mouse
Why did you decide to take part?
The primary reason is to support the children of Ronald McDonald House charities. Taking a couple hits to the face is the least we can do to make an impact on changing the lives of children and their families. Secondly, we’re awarded with the opportunity to get trained for 12 weeks by some of the best coaches in the sport. Twelve weeks to get shredded and show off those boulder shoulders of steel, well worth it!
Have you ever done anything like this before (boxing, fighting)?
I can’t say I’ve ever fought in the ring or pulled off any Fight Club scenarios, but I’ve had one or two Ron Hextall and Felix Potvin scraps when I used to play competitive hockey. What’s more exciting than a couple of female goaltenders going head to head at centre ice? We needed to make the crowd go wild every once in a while.
What do you like about it?
Sparring. Definitely sparring. It’s the one chance you have to shine, or receive a shiner if you don’t get so lucky.
What’s the toughest part of training?
I’ve developed a love/hate relationship with hill sprints. I’m loving that they’re making my legs like lean mean fighting machines, but hustling to the top of that hill is the least amount of fun you can have with your clothes on!
What have you picked for your walkout song? And how is it representative of who you are as a fighter?
Watch Out for This – Major Lazer. The title of the song says it all. The rhythm is merely an added bonus and a mental game changer.
What message do you have for your opponent?
I see your “Tanquesito” and raise you one fired up Italian Stallion with her eye on a cannoli post-victory. That’s a powerful force to contend with.
