During the coming months, we’ll be highlighting our fighters in training for the upcoming Beltway Brawl in DC on September 19th. 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 Adam Baxter, fighting out of Urban Boxing Arlington.

Where are you from?
Severna Park, MD

Where’d you go to college?
Towson University

Did you play any sports growing up?
Lacrosse, Football, Basketball

What do you do for work?
Self-employed General Contractor

Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I grew up watching some of the great heavyweight champs (Tyson, Holyfield, Lewis, Holmes), wondering what it must have been like to be in the ring fighting an opponent of equal strength and discipline. I was always curious and in awe of boxers, but didn't think I would ever feel it firsthand.

Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
When the Baltimore Brawler (Rich Beecher) suggested I sign up for H4H, I knew I had the chance to take that curiosity of my childhood, and turn it into a reality. And to be able to do it for such a good cause was an even bigger incentive- there was no hesitation in signing on to fight in honor of those that are fighting real battles against a much worse opponent.

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 recently learned that a guy in my circle of friends was diagnosed with testicular cancer and required surgery and nine weeks of chemotherapy. He has a young family like I do. And being a dad is tough job- I can't imagine what it must be like to fight cancer while also raising young children, but I know people have to do it everyday. So I decided to fight for all the parents out there that are literally fighting for their lives, so that they can have the opportunity to watch their children grow, just as I am so blessed to be doing.

What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
I have a serious sweet tooth, so keeping the candy and cookies away will be tough!

When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
I love shooting sporting clays on the Eastern Shore, hanging out with my family, all things old cars and taking my daughter to ballet.

Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Every single one of my 15 groomsmen...and maybe a few others.

Check out his fundraising page and be sure to wish him luck! Best of luck, Adam!