The Gore Boxing Club is celebrating 20 years since it was revived by bringing some big names to Gore to fight — and talk — it out.
Boxing coach Russell Newton said Saturday’s tournament will feature fighters from high-profile gyms, such as Peach Boxing in Auckland, and champion boxer Mea Motu will be on board to give a talk between rounds.
Motu overcame years of serious domestic violence to later become a record-breaking champion, all the while raising five children, Mr Newton said.
"Hers is a tale of tenacity and triumph, really."
Motu is a New Zealand Māori professional boxer. She is the current IBO World Super Bantamweight Champion. She is a four division New Zealand champion, holding more New Zealand titles than any other female boxer.
Peach Boxing coach Isaac Peach is bringing down four fighters, including his 10-year-old son, Zen, as he wants him to have his debut fight away from Auckland, where there would be a lot of pressure, Mr Newton said.
The young boxer will be in the cadet category, which starts at 10, alongside the junior, youth and over-18 elite classifications.
Another "star of the show" will be Gore’s own Jesse Hawken as well as local cricket and rugby player Ryan McFaul.
Up-and-comer McFaul won gold after winning both his fights at the South Island Novice Boxing Championships a couple of weekends ago in Christchurch.
Mr Newton said he tried to pick "something for everyone" from 36kg cadets to a super heavyweight champion from Wellington.
"There’ll be some real stylish boxers," he said.
The tournament will be at the Town & Country Club with tickets at the door.
