The much anticipated Knock Out Cancer charity boxing event in the Hunts Point produce market on Saturday, July 23 was a huge hit, in and out of the ring.
Over 1,000 people gathered outdoors on a steamy Saturday night in the middle of the Produce Market. Despite the heat, guests enjoyed four big fights, including a title match, an upset victory, and most importantly, all proceeds were donated to the American Cancer Society.
Joe DeGuardia, owner of Star Boxing, the event’s coordinator, was beyond pleased at the turnout and is already focusing his eye on putting together next year’s fundraiser.
“It was very hot but the energy and ambience of the crowd was truly unbelievable,” DeGuardia said. “Everybody was really getting into it, cheering on all of the competitors, and really had a great time. We were all very pleased with the outcome and Hunts Point was a phenomenal contributor to the event.”
Many of the event sponsors came from the businesses in Hunts Point. Many purchased VIP packages that included food and beverages for their family and guests.
According to DeGuardia, Star Boxing and representatives from the American Cancer Society and the Hunts Point Produce Market have yet to meet for their post-event meeting, but he anticipates that Knock Out Cancer raised over $100,000 that night.
The event lasted nearly four hours and the main event, an IBA Americas Heavyweight Title match between Joe “The Future” Hanks and Alfredo Escalera Jr., provided a thrilling 10-round classic battle that ultimately saw Hanks win the vacant title and remain undefeated at 17-0.
Also remaining undefeated that night was Bronx native Issouf Kinda, who recently signed with Star Boxing and won in a unanimous six round match against Bryan Abraham.
Prior to the event, DeGuardia acknowledged that Knock Out Cancer was created to be an annual event and with a successful inaugural show, the three partners are already seeking ways to improve next year’s fundraiser.
“Everything is going according to plan to make this an annual event,” he said. “We want to keep doing this because it was a tremendous success and we want to keep spreading the word about fighting cancer. We promise to make each year better and better.”
Hunts Point Produce Market executive administration director Myra Gordon was honored to host Knock Out Cancer in the heart of the market. She is looking forward to the market’s involvement for years to come.
