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. Paul Grossman 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 more than halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along?
I remember talking to alumni as they tried to prepare you for what training is like – how rigorous it is, how you become part of a family, how much discipline is involved…I wasn’t able to fully understand it at that time. I get it now.
What is your weekly routine?
Alarm clocks, moving around in the dark to not wake anyone up, smelling hand wraps, apologizing for the amount of sweaty clothes sitting on the washer, trying not to chew mouthgaurds, box like a mad man, financially support whoever makes advil, restless sleep, repeat.
Tell us about your first time sparring, different than expected?
My wife still complains that when I nose breath I sound like the dude from Me, Myself and Irene….so ya, it went that well.
What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far?
It’s that balancing act between training, family and work. No matter what happens May 18th, I will know that if I trained any harder I would either be injured, divorced, or fired…so I got that going for me.
What does your family think of your participation?
The wife has gotten on board for the most part – I think all of the support and encouragement from family and friends has made her proud and she knows I need her in my corner. My mother, forget about it. Do not mention boxing or anything of the sort around her. I’ll be looking for those positive vibes both of them will be sending from home on fight night.
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?
It just always blows my mind how everyone has one. And often times it’s someone so close to them that was affected. So many heartbreaking stories from our Haymakers group alone, but also a good handful of inspirational ones. If I wasn’t fighting him I know I’d be rooting for Jeff Scola to win – what his fiancé has been through and overcome is remarkable. I’m honored to be part of an event whose goal is to help create more success stories.
Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training?
I’m still fighting for all of the same reasons that brought me into this madness in the first place. I guess the only additional inspiration I draw from now is more personal – I’ve sacrificed so much over the last 3 months and I want to just build on that up to fight night.
Donate to Paul or purchase a ticket to Rock 'N Rumble VII on May 18th here!