In the world of charity boxing, few events are as impactful as Ultra White Collar Boxing (UWCB). Participants like Kyle Gibbs, a returning fighter, step into the ring not just to test their endurance but to raise funds for causes close to their hearts. For Kyle, this challenge is more than just physical—it’s a tribute to his late grandmother and a cause that holds deep personal significance. We sat down with Kyle to learn more about his motivation, experiences, and his hopes for the upcoming fight.
Q1: What made you decide to take on a boxing match for charity?
Kyle: “I decided to take up boxing for charity as I thought it would be a good way to raise money for a charity that is close to me as well as get me out of the house and in shape.”
Q2: Why did you pick this particular charity to fight for? What does it mean to you?
Kyle: “I picked Cancer Research UK as my nan, who I was really close to, had cancer. Unfortunately, she passed away. I did this before while she was still alive, and seeing how proud it made her made me want to do it again.”
Q3: How did your family and friends react when you told them you’d be stepping into the ring?
Kyle: “It was mixed reactions when I told people the first time, but overall they were all really supportive.”
Q4: How’s training going so far? What’s been the hardest part for you?
Kyle: “Training has been really tiring and hard, but it’s really enjoyable. The hardest part so far is the daily run I’m doing.”
Q5: Anything about training that caught you by surprise?
Kyle: “What took me by surprise was how intense training is from the get-go, and it only gets harder. But it really motivated me as I was doing it.”
Q6: Are there any past experiences that are helping you prepare for this match?
Kyle: “I did this same event two years ago, so I’m taking what I learned that time, like what to do better and what not to do.”
Q7: What’s your background, and what brought you here?
Kyle: “The love I have for my nan is what brought me here. She was such a strong woman, and even while going through cancer, she never gave up fighting. That’s why I’m here—to raise as much money as I can for an amazing charity. Just like my nan, I won’t give up fighting, too.”
Q8: What do you do for work?
Kyle: “I’m a self-employed dryliner.”
Q9: Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of boxing?
Kyle: “Watching and playing football.”
Q10: What’s the funniest or most unexpected thing that’s happened since you started training?
Kyle: “So far, it’s really early into training, so there isn’t much that’s been funny or unexpected yet. But I know as the weeks go on, all the fighters will get to know each other more, and we’ll have such a fun time doing this journey together.”
Q11: How can people get involved or donate to support your cause?
Kyle: “People can get involved by adding me on Facebook, where I’ll be trying to organize a few raffles and maybe some fundraising sweepstakes. For anyone who wants to donate, you can visit my JustGiving page here: JustGiving – Kyle Gibbs.”
Q12: What would you like to say to people who are thinking about supporting you in this?
Kyle: “To anyone thinking of donating to my JustGiving page, I’d just like to say a big thank you. This charity means so much to me, and with more people donating and supporting Cancer Research, they can only do more and better research.”
Q13: Besides helping the charity, what are you hoping to get out of this experience?
Kyle: “I’m hoping to meet new people, get out of the house, get in shape, and just enjoy myself.”
Q14: Any advice for someone who might be considering taking on a big challenge for a cause they care about?
Kyle: “My advice to anyone thinking of doing a big challenge for their own charity is to just give it a go. You won’t regret it, and you’ll feel like you’ve achieved something great, too.”
Kyle Gibbs’s story is one of resilience and dedication. With every punch he throws, he’s honoring his grandmother and contributing to life-saving research. If you’d like to support Kyle and help him reach his fundraising goal, you can donate directly through his JustGiving page.