CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (WVIR) – The ring stood at the center of the field, surrounded by fans, families, friends, and boxing enthusiasts who came out for a day of action.
“Boxing is a great sport, and it’s definitely good for youth to help them develop discipline, so I’m just grateful to be able to come out here and see what’s going on in the community and be a part of something greater than me,” amateur boxer Tashara “TJ” Van Alstyne said
Fighters stepped between the ropes ready to put on a show, but every round carried more meaning than just a scorecard.
For those in the crowd, including organizer George Rivera and his wife Amber, “Showtime at the Post” delivered both entertainment and inspiration, proving boxing can bring people together for something that lasts beyond fight night.
“No, it’s my first time, seeing any boxing match to be honest and the community here is amazing,” UVA student Ishmam Abtahi said.
And for the fighters, stepping into this ring wasn’t just about victory, it was about making an impact.
“It’s a great thing for us to bring the community out everybody is having a good time enjoying what they see so this is what we do it for, for the community, it’s not just for us it’s for everybody,” amateur boxer Kevon Clarkson said.
The event stretched through the afternoon, raising money and awareness for Wartime Fitness, a group focused on mental health and wellness resources.
“I don’t think people talk about it enough, I mean I also coach football at Albemarle High School, shout out to my kids, people need somebody to talk to,” amateur boxer Jamal Thompson said. “People need people to go and places to go to help them out.”
From the first bell to the last round, “Showtime at the Post” proved boxing can be powerful inside the ring and even more powerful when it’s used to fight for a cause.
“The community here is so like overwhelming, everybody is like always in such a good mood and everything, and like just talking to everybody and just seeing how everybody is just always happy,” UVA student Musayav Razaq said.
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