Tuesday, April 10 2018
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 17th, 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. Christian Carballo has been putting in work at Corebox Training Center and below you’ll hear about his first time sparring and more about his experience with Haymakers thus far.
We’re halfway to fight night, how is your training coming along?
Training is awesome. When I’m not training, I’m thinking about training. I’ve already fought my fight in my mind about a hundred times. It’s an addiction.
What is your weekly routine?
I train Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and run every other day.
How has your diet changed since training began?
I eat healthy and don’t drink any alcohol at all. The weight has just melted off now 22 pounds since January 1st. High protein diet and tons of water. I feel fantastic.
Tell us about your first time sparring, different than expected?
I was both excited and had some butterflies but, I felt prepared and confident. The guy I fought was 16 years younger, bigger and had been training 3 months longer than me. I wasn’t happy with how tired I was after the first round but his nose was leaking pretty good so, I’ll take that trade off. I got my wind back fairly quickly and my opponent was gassed before the end of round 2. I handled him fairly easily for all three rounds and was on cloud nine afterwards. All the work up to that point definitely felt like it paid off.
What has been the most challenging part of sticking to the routine and training so far?
Time away from my kids has been hard. Instead of being with them 6-7 nights a week, I’m away from them 4 nights a week. I just hug and kiss them a little extra when I can now. When it comes to training, I get frustrated with myself when I don’t pick up on a technique or movement quickly. It’s my competitive nature with myself and it happens in every sport. It pushes me to do better. Not eating crap or drinking has been going on for over two months so, that aspect has become so much easier.
What does your family think of your participation?
“Proud” is the word most commonly used and any variation of “crazy” is second. My family has lost so many loved ones to cancer so, they understand why I’m doing this. I’m pretty much the nut job of the family too, so, this isn’t too shocking to a lot of them.
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?
Unfortunately, the way people have been affected by cancer hasn’t surprised me at all. It’s a brutal disease and I’ve heard so many awful stories that not much surprised me when it comes to it. I am, however, surprised by the number of people who have never really fought before who signed up to be in a punch in the face contest. That takes a lot of guts and I applaud you.
Has your initial inspiration changed since the start of your training?
I still fight for my family and friends who have either lost the battle or are currently fighting against this ruthless disease. Specifically, my Mom who is going through chemo now. I have also found inspiration through a woman, Alissa, who I train with. She is a tiny, little spark plug who works her ass off in the gym every day and seeing how hard she trains has pushed me to take it to the next level.
Donate to Christian or purchase a ticket to Rock 'N Rumble VIII on May 17th here!