Haymakers for Hope allows “everyday” individuals from a pool of applicants to step into the ring for the first time in their lives.
Haymakers for Hope, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising funds and awareness for cancer research and care, returns to The Fillmore Miami Beach on Mar. 5, 2026, to “knock out” cancer with its highly anticipated second annual charitable boxing event.
The University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center will serve as the primary beneficiary, but fighters also may choose other cancer charities that are meaningful to them.
“We believe that if you are willing to get punched in the face in the name of cancer research, then you should have a say where the money goes,” said Andrew Myerson, co-founder of Haymakers for Hope.
Unlike typical boxing matches, Haymakers for Hope allows “everyday” individuals from a pool of applicants to step into the ring for the first time in their lives to raise money for a good cause, with no prior boxing experience required.
Selected participants complete an intensive four-month training program with expert USA Boxing-registered trainers honing their skills and preparing mentally and physically for the big night. Their journey culminates in an electrifying gala, where participants compete in their first official USA Boxing-sanctioned bout (against an opponent of similar size, age, weight and skill level) in front of thousands of supporters.
The event also features “Ring Card Warriors,” cancer survivors who take turns holding up ring cards between each round.
“Thanks to the incredible generosity of the community, we raised a significant amount of money last year at our first Miami event, and we’re thrilled to be back to build on that momentum and surpass our fundraising goal,” Myerson said. “This program not only challenges individuals to push past their limits but also provides a powerful opportunity to fundraise for cancer research, care and survivorship. It’s proof that not every fight ends at the bell.”
Since its founding in 2010, Haymakers for Hope has hosted over 40 boxing events in major markets, including New York; Chicago; Boston; Philadelphia; Denver, and Washington, DC, with Miami returning to the lineup for the second consecutive year.
To date, the organization has raised over $35 million to fight cancer. Last year’s inaugural fundraiser in Miami raised $421,000, including $88,000 in support of the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. The event also supported other beneficiaries such as the Tampa General Hospital Cancer Institute and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
“Preparing for a boxing match is no small task — it demands discipline, grit and perseverance,” said Jordan McMillan, marketing manager for Haymakers for Hope. “But the reward is incredible. Fighters gain strength, confidence, and community, all while making an impact. Cancer doesn’t give you the choice to fight; it chooses you. That’s what makes this cause so meaningful.”
Tickets for the Miami boxing event will start at $85 per person and go on sale Jan. 13, 2026. Those in attendance can look forward to a high-energy evening filled with action-packed entertainment, thrilling matchups, and meaningful opportunities to support the fighters through donations and merchandise. The night will deliver both excitement and purpose, combining the intensity of live boxing with the atmosphere of a premium event experience.
To learn more about Haymakers for Hope, visit haymakersforhope.org.
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