During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Hope NYC in New York City on November 16th. They’ve committed to four months of fundraising and training in preparation to get in the ring and literally fight for a cure. Whether they've had first hand experience, 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 Rich Beecher, fighting out of Mendez Boxing in New York City.
Where are you from?
The mean streets of Baltimore, Maryland.
Where’d you go to college?
Towson University where I played lacrosse and was a double major in Finance and Accounting.
Did you play any sports growing up?
I played football and lacrosse. As a kid, I was a bit chunky and my football teammates called me "Bubba"
What do you do for work?
I am Director of Investor Relations for a Private Equity firm in New York.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
After college, I was looking for a competitive workout and tried mixed martial arts. I didn't love MMA so much but I fell in love with boxing.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
I had gotten fat after my daughter was born and needed the motivation to get back into the gym. Also, I had been looking for a worthwhile charity to get involved with. A friend introduced me to Haymakers For Hope and I called Andrew Myerson that week to learn more. Once I spoke to Andrew, I knew this was an organization that I wanted to be a part of and I couldn't wait to sign up to #KOCancer.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
Cancer has affected my life in a major way. When I was 20 years old I was a living organ donor for my Uncle who had liver cancer. I donated 70% of my liver in 2002. That experience had such a profound impact on my life in so may ways. Since then, many of my loved ones and friends have battled this horrible disease. Currently, a lacrosse teammate of mine is battling prostate cancer, and he is 35 years old! Cancer can affect anyone at any time and I am determined to do my part to help.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Early mornings with my wife and one year old daughter. The best part of my morning is walking into my daughter's room and seeing the joy on her face. I get to the gym in the mornings before work so I've had to adjust my schedule and that is by far the hardest thing to give up.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I'm a huge Baltimore Ravens fan. I enjoy working out (CrossFit, running, hiking etc.), playing with my daughter, going to concerts with friends and date night with my wife.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
It's tough to say. My wife is certainly excited and many of my friends are placing side bets on the fight. I think there are many family friends and colleagues who are excited to see me get punched in the face (and to watch me punch some faces as well).
Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Rich!