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It’s not often that a boxing match, particularly a NZ heavyweight title fight, comes to a venue like Parāoa Brewery in Whangaparāoa.
But boxing promoter Craig Thomson of Ōrewa likes to find different and unique venues.
Thomson, a boxer himself, says bringing a big fight to places like Parāoa creates a different atmosphere and can bring in new enthusiasts to the sport.
He trialled a fight there last October, on a Sunday afternoon, and says it was hugely popular.
“Usually a fight like this would be in a place like the ABA stadium in Mt Eden,” Thomson says. “Taking it to Parāoa makes it more boutique and creates a different sense of occasion. Spectators can be a stone’s throw from the ring. That’s great for the atmosphere. Whether you’re already a fan, or have never been to boxing before and just want a night out, it’s a chance to experience the sport in a new way.”
Next month, 2.15m tall Julius ‘Towering Inferno’ Long will take on ‘King’ Kiki Leutele in the NZ heavyweight title bout at Parāoa.
Their first fight ended in a draw, so it’s expected to be a close contest.
Also on the programme is former American basketballer Maurice McNeil in a professional heavyweight bout and Stanmore Bay middleweight boxer Marcus ‘The Headache’ Heywood vs Josh Iongi of Christchurch.
There will also be Corporate Boxing fights, which provide a chance for people who box to improve their physical and mental health, to fight in front of a crowd and put their training to good use. Those fights will feature a mix of locals and fighters from wider Auckland.
The Long versus Leutele fight is on Saturday, April 8. Tickets from Eventfinda.
