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Local boxing fans are in for a long-awaited homecoming as boxing returns to one of the city’s most iconic and historic venues.
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Tony “Lightning” Luis announced the launch of his new venture Lightning Strikes Promotions on Friday, July 31. Luis’ new venture is partnering with LOL Entertainment to present Night of Champions on Oct. 30 inside the historic drill hall at the Cornwall Armoury.
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According to Luis, public boxing hasn’t been hosted inside the historic venue in nearly 50 years. The event revives Cornwall’s combat-sports heritage while serving as a major charitable drive, with proceeds supporting youth programming at Champs Eastside Boxing Club.
“This event is a direct tribute to the very gym that my dad built with his own two hands, his sacrifice, and his absolute dedication to our community,” said Luis, adding the event is dedicated to his father, Jorge Luis, and his late mother.
Jorge Luis was a household name in boxing in Cornwall in the 1980s and 1990s. He operates Champs Eastside Boxing Club, which rents its clubhouse/training space on Jarvis Street from the City of Cornwall.
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“By bringing this event to these armoury steps and drill hall, we are reviving a legendary Cornwall tradition,” said Luis.
The main event features Luis stepping out of retirement for a six-round exhibition bout against Dylan Rushton of Stoney Creek, Ont. While the match remains an unsanctioned exhibition with headgear and protective, heavy-cushioned gloves, Luis noted the intensity will be real.
“We will be trading real blows,” said Luis. “The fight’s not going to be scripted.”
Bringing star power to the evening is special guest Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, an International Boxing Hall of Fame member. Organizers emphasized that Mancini will be accessible to general admission spectators and local youth.
More than 85 tickets have already been pre-allocated to community organizations, including the BGC Cornwall/SDG and the Agapè Centre.
The undercard stars for the Night of Champions matchup on Oct. 30. From left, Kyle Montpetit, Wyatt Dupuis and Kai Montpetit, on Friday, June 13, 2025, in Cornwall, Ont. Photo by Marc Benoit /Cornwall Standard-Freeholder
The undercard focuses heavily on local talent, showcasing young prospects from Champs Eastside, including 11-year-old Wyatt Dupuis, open division fighter Kai Montpetit, and undefeated Brampton Cup champion Kai McAllister.
“That’s the core target that this event is funding,” said Luis. “The next generation of Cornwall fighters.”
The event will also feature a masters division bout with Jay Glynn, Brockville and Area Sports Hall of Fame inductee facing off against Tom “The Bomb” Rosa. General admission tickets and ringside VIP tables go on sale Friday, Aug. 7.
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