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 Richard “Gus” LaBelle fighting out of EverybodyFights.
Where are you from?
Leominster, MA
Where did you go to college?
Bently/Curry
Did you play any sports growing up?
Hockey
What do you do for work?
Carpenter
Why boxing? Did you ever picture yourself fighting?
Thought about it a few times just never took the jump in mentality.
Why on earth did you sign up to fight??
Honor those that I have lost on my life, and to show people that there is no giving up.
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 lost my father to pancreatic cancer in 93’ He inspires me daily to keep up the fight no matter what. And he quoted to me “I’ll be watching you. Make me proud no matter what."
What is going to be the most difficult thing to give up during your training? (beer, cheeseburgers, time spent watching TV?)
So far the giving up of a lot of things has not put me in a bad place or bothered me. I am focused.
When you’re not throwing punches and training -- what other hobbies/interests do you have?
Men’s league hockey. And hanging w my kids.
Who do you think is the most excited to watch you get punched in the face come fight night?
Well that’s a loaded question. Many want to see me get hit. They want that though because they know the “lil ball of hate” I can turn into. But hey it’s all in good fun. So swing away. 🤘🏽
Check out his fundraising page and be sure to wish him luck! Best of luck, Gus!