During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rumble in the Rockies in Denver on June 14th. 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 Andrew Nemechek, fighting out of the ToS Boxing.
Where are you from?
Colorado Springs, CO
Where’d you go to college?
UCCS
Did you play any sports growing up?
Soccer and Basketball
What do you do for work?
Financial Analyst
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I had been thinking about joining a boxing gym for a few months before I became aware of Haymakers. I had grown bored of the same gym routine and thought boxing would be different- it's definitely different! To be clear, these were thoughts of joining a boxing gym to work out, not actually fight! I never pictured myself stepping in a boxing ring, but that's part of the greatness of this event!
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
I signed up to fight as a challenge to myself. Everything about the training will challenge me mentally and physically. Almost everything about Haymakers -asking for donations, performing in front of people, doing cardio- is outside of my comfort zone. I am excited to push myself to new limits and learn a lot about myself! Haymakers also provides an incredible opportunity to raise money and awareness in the fight for a cure for cancer which was too great to pass up!
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
One of the main reasons that I decided to literally fight for a cure is that I have been fortunate enough that cancer has not had a profound impact on my life. I am fighting, in part, to keep it that way! I also realize how lucky I am to be in this position, and would like to stand-up in support with all those that have been impact by this terrible disease. I hope through my fundraising and participation in Haymakers for Hope to have a role (albeit a small one) in helping with the ultimate goal of beating cancer for good!
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Dessert and sleep
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Playing sports, watching TV, reading
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
My little brother
Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Andrew