Thursday, March 15 2018
During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rock ‘N Rumble VIII in Boston on May 17th. 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 Chip Rives, fighting out of the BoxSmith.
Where are you from?
North Carolina, originally. But Dad was in the Army so pick a city that begins with "Fort"! I've been in Boston 25 years now so I feel like a local, but will still throw some "y'alls" into conversation after a couple of beers.
Where’d you go to college?
Wake Forest University for both undergrad and grad school
Did you play any sports growing up?
Growing up I played football, basketball and baseball. I played football at Wake Forest. Fullback - when big slow fullbacks were in vogue....
What do you do for work?
I run a Millennial and Gen Z marketing firm that helps companies market their products or services to those consumers.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
A friend of mine fought in Haymakers two years ago and was so positive about the experience that it sounded like something I could do and really wanted to do. I have never boxed, but having played D1 football contact is not scary to me so I thought I could handle it.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
It's just a great event for a great cause. I love the fact that their overhead is low and the majority of the money raiseed goes directly to the causes we choose. And nothing makes you lose 30 pounds like the threat of getting your butt kicked in front of 2,000 people ;)
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
A good friend runs an organization called Family Reach that supports families who are going through cancer treatments, providing both financial and emotional support. It's a great organization and I thought I could help. And learning about Grant - who I am fighting in honor of - and the struggles he has overcome at age 3... it's pretty inspiring. It's easy to get to the gym when you think about what he and others have gone through to fight against cancer.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Definitely cheeseburgers. I can do without bread, most sweets, and pasta. But I need a good cheeseburger at least once a week. I had to order a Turkey Burger on a salad at TastyBurger with my kids the other day and it was tragic.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I have been going to Nashville for the past 9 years to write country music when I have time. I also got my pilots license last year and have been trying to spend some time exploring New England in the air. Most of my time is spent with my 16 and 13 year old boys and my 5 year old daughter - they keep me running!
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Probably everyone I know! My wife is not fired up about it however - excited about me doing this and supportive but does not want to see me get hit!
Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Chip!