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 Cyrus Weisberg, fighting out of Mendez Boxing in New York City.
Where are you from?
Grew up in 9 countries...we moved every couple of years
Where did you go to college?
University of Pennsylvania
Did you play any sports growing up?
Soccer, basketball, skiing
What do you do for work?
Analyst at a hedge fund during the day, then I play in a cover band at night
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I took a self-defense class after being attacked on the street in college. Enjoyed it and followed that into Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Eventually, I wanted to try a striking-based martial art.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight?
Passionate about the cause and always looking for new adventures.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure – where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
Cancer has afflicted some of my family members and friends. It is a terrible disease. I am just trying to do what little I can to help find a cure.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training?
Travel - earlier this year I climbed a small mountain in the Arctic Circle and hiked around the North Dakota Badlands. I try to take as many trips as possible and the training regimen fills my weekends.
When you’re not throwing punches and training - what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I play guitar in Gnarly Rae Jepsen, a local NYC 90s cover band. We play in various bars around the city, and do our best to be a fun live show. If you like live music and 90s rock and pop, please do come party with us.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Too many to mention!
Be sure to check out his fundraising page and wish him luck! Best of luck, Cyrus!