Thursday, March 29 2018
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 Luis Ovalle, fighting out of the Topiera Boxing Club.
Where are you from?
Born and raised in Queens NY
Where’d you go to college?
Buffalo State College NY
Did you play any sports growing up?
Basketball, football for the most part.
What do you do for work?
I work for RK mechanical, Supply chain department. I keep track of materials and making sure they are accounted for.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
As I got older, there was a point in my life that I needed to learn something new, to keep me motivated, to reach new heights mentality and physically.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
I always envisioned myself under the lights, the big stage, putting on a great show. Also, this event is much bigger than my desires. That’s the beauty of it.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
I have a long time friend back in NYC that I have trained for many years back in my personal training days. She was diagnosed with cancer and it hit home. She went through tons of treatments, doctor appointments, surgeries. She eventually beat it and is a survivor. I spoke to her just recently and told her that I’m doing this fight in honor of her strength and her will to fight. Her name is Lori.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
Beer, sweets
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Snowboarding, camping, going out to movies, traveling, watching my little girl Nya grow so freaking fast......
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
First off, the plan is to NOT get punched in the face. Lol. I would have to say my wife, Nicole. She’s been there since day one. Plus she wants to see me back in shape.
Be sure to check out his fundraising page here and wish him luck! Best of luck, Luis!