Tuesday, February 21 2017
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rock ‘N Rumble VII in Boston, MA on May 18th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether their mom is battling, their father has passed or their friend has put up a victory against the disease – they’ve all got a story to tell and they’ve all got a reason to fight. Below you’ll hear from Matt Grendal, fighting out of Elite Boxing & Fitness in North Attleborough, MA.
Where are you from?
Foxboro, MA Home of the New England Patriots. Ever hear of them?
Where’d you go to college?
Salve Regina University in Newport, RI. Go Seahawks (CAWWW CAWWW)
Did you play any sports growing up?
Growing up I was involved in just about every type of sport. Once I got to high school I focused on football (of course, I played), basketball, tennis & track. During college, I pulled a Lebron & took my basketball talents to First Beach.
What do you do for work?
Technology stuff
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I think boxing was a natural progression. I’m a washed up D3 basketball star (I’m using star extremely loosely) who needs some sort of motivation to get the summer body ready. Plus, drunken bar fights aren’t really a “cool” thing to be doing on the wrong side of 30.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight?
Peer pressure. I’ll keep it PG rated but I could only hear “Sissy,” “loser,” “you’re not tough” before I decided enough of was enough. I have a few friends who competed with Haymakers who could not say enough great things about the organization. When they spoke about the cause it was enough to sell me on it but they continued to speak of the experience, the people, and the bond after the fight. Each conversation I had with my friends about Haymakers I wanted to run through a brick wall so I knew I would regret not being a part of a great organization!
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
Growing up I saw my great grandmother, Anna Capone, my grandmothers, Helen Grendal & Margaret Capone then my good friend, Jeff Parker, all battle then succumb to this horrible disease. My memories of them laughing & smiling will help drive me to my goal. Taking a few punches & raising some money to #KOCancer is the least I could do for people I loved.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
I’m not giving up any of my vices. If anything, I am using this as a platform to promote my love for Taco Bell. I want to prove eating countless meals from the tastiest fast food chain ever can help you accomplish your goals.
When you’re not throwing punches and training –what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Taco Bell aficionado, duh!
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
The list is too long to name but I know my mother and Taco Bell are not looking forward to it. I am my mother’s golden child & Taco Bell’s sales will plummet if anything happened to my jaw.
Be sure to check out his fundraising page here. Best of luck, Matt!
(This post was in no way endorsed by Taco Bell - however, Taco Bell if you're reading this we do allow corporate sponsorships and you can contact us at info@haymakersforhope.org!)