Police officers defeated firefighters in the 17th annual Guns and Hoses charity boxing event, extending their winning streak to five years, organizers said.
Inside Camp Jordan Arena in East Ridge on Friday night, spectators cheered and clapped as first responders traded punches across 18 bouts. When fighters pinned opponents against the ropes or knocked them to the ground, hundreds of people roared.
Chattanooga firefighter Garrett Liles grew up watching his father compete in Guns and Hoses, he said. One year, he and his younger brother carried their father’s belts when he walked out.
His father, Keith Liles, hasn’t competed in a few years but still misses the ring. He would have loved to be backstage getting ready for a fight, just like his son.
“I always have a standing rule with every fight,” he said. “The winner buys the loser a beer afterwards.”
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