Youth Boxing Fundraiser in LA

Benefit for Coach Zanders & USA Boxing!

It’s time for the “Chatter Box” to shine the spotlight on amateur boxing once again!

Next summer will be a special one for the future Olympians heading to London for the 2012 Olympic Games.

For every champion boxer lucky enough to make that trip across the pond, there are thousands of other young pugilists who fought their hearts out but didn’t make the cut. But for these boys and girls, boxing has been a proven salvation for them in keeping them off the streets and away from drugs and gangs.

Unfortunately, with the current economy, the sport of amateur boxing has taken a hit recently.

“They had to cancel two shows this year because there wasn’t enough money,” Southern California boxing’s William Torres tells me. “So I wanted to do something to support USA Boxing, Joe Zanders and all the kids that want to box.” The popular Blue & Gold Tournament was one of the shows that was derailed.

So THIS Thursday night, October 20, Torres and Solongo Production will be holding a fun evening featuring members of the 2012 National Team, the U.S. National Coach Joe Zanders, special boxing guests and spokesmodels from “Finding Freedom International” and much more. The fundraising fiesta will take place at Con Sabor Restaurant and Lounge in Los Angeles. Tickets are 50.00 each and MUST be purchased in advance. The proceeds will benefit youth boxing programs.

“It will be a spectacular night of food, wine and music,” Willie says, “all to benefit USA Boxing. They volunteer their time to keep kids off the streets; I’m really touched by this. Mr. Joe Zanders is a great role model in giving kids a chance and I wanted to thank him for that by having this event.”

Zanders will be the one at the helm when the U.S. team competes next summer. Torres wants to make sure to honor the longtime Long Beach coach. “Mr. Zanders and the USA officials do NOT get the recognition they deserve,” Willie, a manager familiar in boxing circles, explains. “I’ve heard amazing stories in amateur boxing about how the kids have succeeded in staying off the streets.”

Again, for the fortunate few that reach the Olympic level or find success in the pros, there are countless youngsters who never reach the elite level.

“Whether or not they qualify for the Olympics or not, they have found a way to stay out of trouble through boxing,” Torres agrees. “Also, boxing is available for immigrants, whether you are rich or poor.”

Zanders has been a strong proponent of amateur boxing for decades and also believes it’s a prime way to keep kids off of the streets and away from crime. “In 2016 they are talking about having pros compete in the Olympics and I hope that doesn’t happen,” he shares with me. “There are a lot of disadvantaged youth or kids from humble backgrounds that benefit from boxing. Oscar (De La Hoya) and Floyd (Mayweather Jr.) both got medals in the Olympics–and found a way to success through boxing. Those are just two examples.”

Coach Joe just returned from the qualifiers in Baku, Azerbaijan where three out of his ten team members scored victories. “I’m proud of all the guys who went to this competition. We did well, better than what some expected. And Rau’Shee Warren, Joseph Diaz and Errol Spence all qualified and are going to the Olympics,” Zanders confirms when I caught up with the busy trainer today. “So I have a team of three–we need more. But there will be a reload and a continental qualifier in 2012. The boxers stay competitive this way and in the end I think we’ll have the best guys who will seize the moment. It’s gonna be phenomenal.” The veteran trainer will be in attendance Thursday night and will be inviting some amateur boxers as well.

Event promoter Torres has been part of the sweet science for over seven years. Whenever I see him he is always friendly and presents a positive image to the sport. And this week I learned how much he has donated his time and energy through the years in helping others in need.

“Yes, I’ve done a lot of charity work for nonprofit foundations and I’ve volunteered at many events,” Willie replies. “Sometimes it’s related to boxing but other times it’s not. Thursday night will combine my business network and boxing.”

Thursday night will benefit USA Boxing but it will also bring attention to Finding Freedom, a nonprofit that rescues women from human trafficking. DJ Calexico and Mariachi Voces de Mexico will also be featured; Torres has provided Mariachis for many boxing events and walkout entrances at live fights. And along with the celebrity guests invited to attend in addition to a silent auction which will be held.

Join the team for an evening dedicated to amateur boxing as they continue fighting to reach the top!

Photos by Michele Chong

Youth Boxing Fundraiser
“Food, Wine & Music” in LA
Thursday, October 20
7:30 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
Con Sabor
2212 S. Union Ave.
Los Angeles 90007
*Tickets: (323) 228 2753 (*Tickets MUST be purchased in advance)