During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rock ‘N Rumble VII in Boston 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 Michael Abbate, fighting out of Redline Fight Sports in Cambridge, MA.
Where are you from?
Westchester, New York
Where’d you go to college?
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Did you play any sports growing up?
Yeah, I used to race motocross and a little wrestling in high school.
What do you do for work?
I'm a product designer and strategist at Intrepid.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I've always appreciated the art. I've had a lot of friends since the start of H4H participate, I've helped some of them train.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
It's always been a dream of mine to do an actual fight. When I was 21 I was diagnosed with Diabetes. It changed a lot of the direction my like took going forward. Boxing is something I have control over. It doesn't judge. It gives back what you give into it. And I respect that.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
I've had a few close relatives suffer at the hand of cancer. From grandparents to cousins, to close family friends. I see what people go through. At the same time, it's motivated me and encouraged me to push myself when I feel like I can't tackle my own chronic illness, to recognize there are folks out there hurting much more.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Tacos! O maaaaaan my pork tacos. Oh, and my mezcal old fashioned's.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Cafe racer motorcycle fan and rider. Love to paddleboard in the summers. Always finding projects around the condo to do - from a new staircase I just finished to kitchen cabinets and one off furniture pieces.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Has to be my stepdad, John. I feel like he's been itching for my ego to be bruised. Unfortunately for him, I'll just have more bragging rights come Christmas time. :)
Be sure to check out his fundraising page here or send him some encouragement on Instagram. Best of luck, Mike!