You’ve heard who they are and why they’re fighting. But now that we’re over the halfway mark until the big night on May 18th, things have started to pick up a bit. Training is getting more intense. They’ve been punched in the face. Most have had a bloody nose here or there, their diets have changed, and boxing is becoming an everyday part of their lives. So we figured it was about time to check back in and see how things have been going. Nathaniel Short has been putting in work at EverybodyFights and below you’ll hear about his first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.
We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along?
Training is coming along well. The last two months have been full of highs and lows, joys and frustrations but most of all it has been a great challenge for myself. I have learned and improved over the last two months and pushed myself to limits I forgot I was capable of anymore. The next two months will be key and I have to find the next level of intensity to ensure I put on a good show!
What is your weekly routine?
My weekly routine has been mixed between morning and evening works outs. I spend 2+ hours a day working on technique, conditioning and learning from boxers with experience. I also spend a lot of time watching boxing videos and matches.
How has your diet changed since training began?
My diet has completely changed over the last two months. I have only been eating vegetables and protein, Gallons of water and no carbohydrates. I used to frequent Chipotle and love chicken wings, this has been completely cut out of my diet. I walk around hungry 100% of the time but this is nothing compared to people fighting cancer!
Tell us about your first time sparring, different than expected?
Sparring was a very nerve jangling experience, I was told nerves were good for you…. But I am not so sure about it. The most difficult thing about sparring is hitting people in the face you know and like, that is until they hit you. I haven’t done too much sparring of recent due to an injury but looking forward to ramping it up until fight night.
What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far?
The most challenging thing has been fitting the training in around my work schedule and travel. Since we have been training I have been to Cali twice, Mexico and Carolina. I have managed to continue eating clean and running while I have been traveling but it kind of gets you out of the groove. I also have other obligations like selling my house (which is under agreement now – thankfully) and continuing to assist my wife with our non-profit Pitbull Rescue. The Pittie Stop is a foster based rescue we founded two years to help a breed in need and it is very much a big part of our daily lives. But so far I have managed to keep going despite the hurdles I have faced.
What does your family think of your participation?
My family think it is awesome and seek weekly updates and videos. My wife was hesitant to start with but has been brilliant keeping me going through the tough days and dealing with my constant HANGRY state. Come fight night I hope they will be proud of the commitment and dedication for such a great cause.
It’s amazing how many people’s lives have been touched by cancer in some way - has there been anyone that has surprised you by their story?
I would say that everyone’s story has touched me. I think that these things are difficult to articulate and express in such an outwardly way to strangers or in such a public forum. No one likes to talk about cancer and the effects it has on people but this event really starts to bring people together. It helps people feel like they are, in some ways helping their loved ones through their battle. There is a certain helplessness or loss for words in these times, so Haymakers gives you a voice.
Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training?
My initial inspiration has not really changed, although I was told on Monday that my aunt has found another lump and will have to go through further testing. So I will use this as extra motivation to fundraise and train that little bit harder. I do have a friend called Ben who has a pretty tough story, his brother was diagnosed with GIST cancer. We all ran marathons and half marathons two weekends ago to help raise awareness and raise money. His brother Leon will be added inspiration to my quest.
Donate to Nano's page or purchase a ticket to Rock 'N Rumble VII on May 18th here!