Wednesday, September 1 2021
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 Jason Vancura fighting out of TKO BoxFit .
Where are you from?
Whitman, MA
Where did you go to college?
Quinnipiac University
Did you play any sports growing up?
I played baseball, basketball, soccer, and hockey growing up. In high school I dropped hockey for basketball after hitting a growth spurt and reaching 6'5". I played baseball, basketball and soccer throughout high school. And in my sophomore year of college I walked on to the Quinnipiac Mens Soccer team. Soccer has always been my favorite sport and even though I was the backup goalie, training and playing at a Division 1 level was always a dream.
What do you do for work?
I work at fama PR as an Account Director. We help high tech companies tell their stories.
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
I'm not exactly a confrontational human, so I don't think I ever pictured myself fighting. I can say for sure that my family and friends were surprised when I decided to jump into the ring. But everyone has been supportive of the journey and the cause.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
The Haymakers for Hope organization is doing tremendous work raising funds and awareness to help fight back against cancer. I really wanted to support their cause and further their message. Jumping in the ring provides the chance to do just 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?
Unfortunately, cancer is something that effects most people. Personally, I've had close friends and family that have been diagnosed, fought, beat and are still fighting cancer. These individuals are some of the strongest people I know. Despite going through some of the most challenging times in their life, they keep a positive attitude and fight every day. I'm blown away by their determination and the outpouring of love that comes from their support systems.
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
I think junk food and time spent watching TV. I'm a big snack guy. Who knew that nacho's and beer aren't the best food for training?
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
If I'm not throwing punches or training, you can usually find me hanging out with my wife and 5-year-old Boston Terrier named Moose. I also enjoy reading, visiting breweries and taking trips to see friends and family.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
I think my brother and his friend Steve, but they'll also be the two loudest supporters at/before the fight. So it's all out of love (I think).
Check out his fundraising page and be sure to wish him luck! Best of luck, Jason!