By James Bovington
Armley boxer Josh Wisher is keenly anticipating staging The Ministry of Boxing’s first home show next Thursday, 21 November.
The gym opened on Moorfield Road in September 2022 and became an England Boxing affiliated club about a year ago.
Mr Wisher, 26, said: “We’ve been taking amateur boxers to other clubs throughout Yorkshire for some time, and now it’s our turn to welcome 16 boxers to our show and give many of our boxers the chance to showcase their skills in front of family and friends.
“Well attended home shows in which young boxers can develop confidence are the bedrock of the amateur sport and we’re obviously delighted at the progress made by those who’ll be competing.”
Armley resident Isaac Duncan is looking forward to showing family, friends and fellow boxers just what skills he’s developed in his bout on the home show.
He said: “I’m positive about everything I’ve learnt at The Ministry and particularly the opportunity to demonstrate skill and technique.
“I’ve had difficulties in life but boxing in general and The Ministry in particular have helped me overcome these. I’ve now qualified as a coach and am pleased to see other novice boxers having the courage and ambition to compete as they develop their confidence.”
The programme includes four ‘skills bouts’ in which younger, novice fighters can box to gain experience of being in the ring without the pressure of a win/lose decision.
Isla Grundy, 13, is the only girl taking part in the home show. She said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity in this skills bout to put into practice what I’ve learnt.
“Next time hopefully it will be a competitive bout with a win! I’ve trained at other gyms but feel completely at home at The Ministry and I’ve made lots of new friends this past year.”
Zak Day, 17, has already represented The Ministry on other shows but is ‘looking forward to lots of support as the audience will hopefully be full of people who know me. I’ve also recently obtained a coaching qualification and I’ll be ‘cornering’ some of the younger fighters I’m also coaching. It’ll be great all to be together and hopefully make it clear just how far people have progressed towards their boxing goals.’
The show takes place at Project House Armley Road LS12 2DR on Thursday, 21 November with doors opening at 6pm. Tickets are available from Josh Wisher (07717 202784) or Phil Wisher (07917 715016).
Sponsored content
