Last night at Rotorua Girls High School, teachers swapped the classroom for the boxing ring to raise funds to develop an after school boxing programme in conjunction with Rotovegas boxing gym, aimed at helping disadvantaged children.
The night, filled with jam packed boxing action showcased twelve corporate amateur bouts and one professional bout. In 2015, Whangamarino Primary School Principal, Rawiri Wihapi came up with the idea "Clash of the Kaiako" to give his staff who regularly attend the Rotovegas boxing gym, the opportunity to show their skills in the boxing arena.
The original concept was such a hit with locals, anyone working with kids at risk was given the chance to glove up in support of the cause.
Ricky Bishop of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Rotoiti went toe to toe with Defence Force Recruitment Officer, Trevor King, which ended in a draw. Bishop says, "I am in full support of helping kids who face difficulties, who are at risk."
Whangamarino primary school teacher, Rehua Mihaka went pound for pound against Justin Timoti of Te Maioha (Kingslea School) who works closely with youth at risk, Justin won by unanimous decision.
Mihaka says, "I’m just privileged to stand (fight) and represent my family, my people and more importantly my school."
The undercard fight to main event lived up to spectators expectations with many spectators describing the fight as the fight of the night.
A much taller Renata Curtis of Te Wharekura o Ngāti Rongomai faced a shorter yet heavier handed Netty Jones from Ngongotaha Primary school. The fight went the distance with Jones wining by unanimous decision.
Renata Curtis says, “Just stepping into the ring, I have learnt you are already a champion. No matter the outcome, win or lose, you are a champion."
To the main event of the night, 21year old Tryon Warren faced Fabian "Pretty Boy" Purcell, he won all four rounds winning by unanimous decision, his second win of his professional career.
The sell-out event which catered for eight hundred corporate and general admission ticket buyers was such a success organisers will consider making this an annual event.