The Pasadena Boxing Club held their 8th Annual Centennial Square Boxing Show in Pasadena, Calif. The beautiful City Hall was the perfect backdrop for a great summer night with the Southern California community.
Here’s my recap and snapshots from the August 25 fights that featured male and female amateur boxers.
The USA Boxing-sanctioned event showcased the 12 bout maximum with seven male bouts and five female bouts. Joining the host club Pasadena Boxing Club and head coach Fausto De La Torre were CM Boxing, Perros Only, Eddie Heredia, Outlaws, RGBA, FORJ, Rise Above, JG Boxing, Simi Valley, Elite Pro, Panda Boxing, Cudahy Boxing, Lobos Boxing, Valverde Boxing, Undefeated, Durango and Supreme.
The competitors ranged in age from 8 to 31 years old with both open and novice categories lacing up the gloves.
It was a friendly atmosphere suitable for all ages and, indeed, the crowd included everyone from babies to seniors wanting to watch the kids, teens and adults fight for victory inside the ropes. There was a special procession before the bouts got underway with Aztec dancers performing a live blessing before the introductions. The outdoor arena also had a car show with the Pasadena Car Club, a taco bar, hot dog carts and a DJ providing the athletes walk out songs.
Each amateur received a hero’s welcome from the large audience. With fight music accompanying their steps down the red carpet and up to the ring, it was an exciting evening filled with lots of fistic action. Win or lose, the youth are gaining experience, building confidence, learning self defense and keeping off the streets and out of trouble. The dedicated USA Boxing crew (volunteer officials) also put in their time to ensure safety is first and foremost during the matchups.
And one very integral person at the Centennial Square fight night was Fausto De La Torre. The respected trainer was once a wayward boy who learned discipline from the sweet science. Now he gives back to others by providing his guidance and mentorship with the Pasadena Boxing Club at the same Villa Parke Community Center where he grew up. De La Torre is a former amateur fighter and a boxing coach who, for over 26 years, has dedicated his life to helping the youngsters and young adults that he and co-trainers work with.
The Pasadena Boxing Club had two female fighters that shined in the spotlight: Adriana Nunez and Diamond Machabie both won their bouts and received lots of cheers from the viewers and especially from the locals in the square.
Many of the amateur boxers are aiming for the Olympics or have dreams of turning pro and it’s weekend shows like these that give them experience and help them grow in their skill level. And each slugger won a shiny medal or a cool commemorative belt (with a Pasadena City Hall emblem) for their efforts and achievements. The City of Pasadena (called the Crown City) made the night one to remember. It’s a yearly tradition that the neighborhood looks forward to attending.
There were also some recognizable faces on the grounds. Professional boxer and USA Boxing official Joet Gonzalez (fighting Luis Alberto Lopez on September 15) was there along with current and former pros, trainers, cornermen and more including Christian Camarena, Paul Banke (BoxFam), Joey Olivera (“The Pasadena Kid”), Sam “Bam” Larios III, Steve Harpst, Cliff Rayman, Juan West, Jesse Ochoa, Chris Strelow, etc.
With a summer breeze flowing and entertaining matches up in the ring, the spectators enjoyed a knockout Friday night.
De La Torre gave a heartfelt acknowledgment and thanks of appreciation to all the supporters, sponsors, volunteers, fighters, coaches and fans for making this annual bash another success.
The Pasadena Boxing Club’s fall show is scheduled for October 21, so don’t miss out!
More about Fausto De La Torre:Photos by Michele Chong