During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Hope NYC in NYC on November 15th. 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 Max Padrid, fighting out of Mendez Boxing in New York City.

Where are you from?
Chicago (SOUTHSIDE STAND UP)

Where did you go to college?
University of Kansas

Did you play any sports growing up?
Basketball and soccer(v average at both)

What do you do for work?
Investment banking

Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
Great way to look good in my bathing suit and the idea of actually fighting another human made my physically ill until like 9 days ago (jk still goes)

Why on earth did you sign up to fight?
The honest answer is I thought I was filling out an entry to win free Olive Garden for a year but somehow wound up here.

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 pretty elaborate backstory but the condensed version is my mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor ten years ago and Is still fighting to recover a decade later. On top of raising money for research, I’m fighting to show her that I got her back for life.

What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training?
My manageable anxiety levels, sleep, general happiness, friendships, family, regular breathing habits, my adorable dad bod, any chance at a girlfriend, buffalo wings, ranch dressing.

When you’re not throwing punches and training -  what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Thinking about all of the things I’m not doing for 4 months(see above). Also Traveling.

Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Every person who’s ever gotten to know me. Also my friend Celine

Be sure to check out his fundraising page and wish him luck! Best of luck, Max!