Boxers gain valuable experience at Title Boxing Tournament

The Polson Boxing Club sent three talented members to the Title Boxing Tournament held in Las Vegas May 12-14. The tournament boasted an impressive lineup of over 900 boxers, making it the largest open boxing competition in the country.

These local boxers battled through logistical nightmares as the tournament was unprepared to handle the staggering number of participants. Registration, weigh-ins, and medical check-ups weren’t equipped, taking up to six hours before the last boxers were ready to fight.

One notable bout saw Araeya Nelson, representing the Polson Boxing Club, emerge victorious against Destiny Lopez from Utah. Some scheduled fights, including that of Polson's Charles Timson, were postponed.

On the second day, boxers were required to weigh in at 6 p.m. To expedite the tournament, the organizers made the controversial decision to reduce the round length for several matches from the standard two minutes to just one minute.

This unexpected change significantly impacted Oziah HeavyRunners, who suffered defeat at the hands of Mikel Apo-Fisher.

The final day of the tournament brought mixed results for the Polson Boxing Club. In the early hours of Sunday morning, Nelson again displayed her skill and determination, triumphing over Nysse Rivera from New Mexico to solidify her position in the bracket. However, Timson faced a tough opponent in Clarence Pollard from Nevada, ultimately losing his match.

Reflecting on their experience in Las Vegas, Polson Boxing Club President Matthew Lee expressed disappointment with the organizational shortcomings of the tournament. He emphasized the need for the event's organizers to address their failures and demonstrate their capability to run a smooth and efficient competition before the club considers returning in the future.

Still, he said, Polson Boxing Club gained invaluable experience and showcased their talents in Las Vegas.