During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Rock ‘N Rumble X in Boston on October 13th. 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 Anthony Camilli fighting out of Sorabella Training Center.
Where are you from?
Watertown, MA
Did you play any sports growing up?
I played a lot of sports growing up...football ,baseball, soccer, and basketball.
What do you do for work?
I’m a stone mason.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I always loved boxing and that competitive drive that comes with it. I did picture myself fighting it’s something that was very appealing to me.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
I signed up to fight because it’s something that means a lot to me and if this is one way to have people recognize this awful disease called cancer I would do anything for that.
You’re stepping in the ring to literally fight for a cure - where are you drawing your inspiration from? How has cancer affected you?
My inspiration comes from my father. My father was diagnosed with Colon cancer three years ago. He was the strongest guy I ever met. He really showed me no matter what happens if you keep a good attitude and your spirits high nothing will get you down. The first year he was diagnosed with his cancer it didn’t get him down at all, he still got up every morning put his boots on and went into work and that motivated me so much to see him keep pushing no matter what obstacle was in his way. Unfortunately, I lost my father last year to this awful disease. With taking this fight, this is my way to pay him back for everything he has done for me growing up and all my life. I’m getting in that ring and I’m showing my dad even though he’s not with us that no matter how tough things get, if you put your mind to it and work hard at it, nothing will stop you. My father is my motivation for doing this and he will always be in my corner with me.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
I think the hardest thing to give up will be food for me but that won’t stop me at all. My motivation is greater than food right now.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
If I’m not in the gym training, I'm relaxing with my family and friends. Other hobbies I like doing are fishing, kayaking, and hiking. I love anything to do outdoors.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
I’m not sure who’s the most excited to see me get punched in the face but I am sure right after the fight I will know who that person is!
Check out his fundraising page and be sure to wish him luck! Best of luck, Anthony!