Ronald ‘Zen’ Als.
For close to a decade, professional boxing has been dormant in Barbados. However, this Boxing Day promises to be a turning point with the much-anticipated event Boxing Day: Homecoming. Organized by Matchbox Promotions and spearheaded by Ronald “Zen” Als, this historic occasion marks the return of professional boxing to the island, spotlighting localmtalents Cobia Breedy and Keithland King.
Als, a former police officer turned boxing advocate, has dedicated his life to uplifting youth through ZenLife Fitness Boxing Club. Having started boxing at thirteen and teaching at sixteen, his passion for the sport is deeply intertwined with a mission to empower young Barbadians. “Boxing saved me,” Als shares, recounting his journey from assisting at summer camps to running his own gym. “It gives young men and women self-confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose.” ZenLife Fitness Boxing Club has become a hub for developing amateur boxers, many of whom have excelled in regional competitions. Through weekly sparring sessions, the gym has fostered a culture of excellence, setting the foundation for what Als envisions as the future of professional boxing in Barbados.
With the establishment of Matchbox Promotions, Als aims to elevate local boxing onto the international stage. “Boxing Day: Homecoming is more than just a match,” he says. “It’s a statement that boxing as a career is viable for Barbadians. This event will showcase boxing in a way the island has never seen before.” The event brings Breedy and King back to fight on home soil for the first time. Fans can expect electrifying bouts and a celebration of Barbadian talent. Tickets are available at Las Vegas Slots locations across the island, Big Youth Gym, and The Bionic Shop.
Als emphasizes the need for greater support from government, businesses, and citizens. Donations, sponsorships, and attendance at events are crucial to sustaining the sport’s growth. “Boxing has the power to transform lives,” he says, highlighting success stories like that of a troubled youth who found discipline and purpose through boxing, and became a Caribbean schoolboy champion.
This Boxing Day promises to be the start of something transformative. For Als and MatchboxPromotions, this event is just the beginning. With ambitious plans to build partnerships and expand professional boxing across the region, the goal is to make Barbados the epicentre of Caribbean boxing. Join this historic moment and support the resurgence of boxing in Barbados on December 26th, 2024. For ticket information and ways to contribute, visit one of the box offices or reach out to the Matchbox Promotions team.
This Boxing Day, let’s rally behind our athletes and witness the dawn of a new era in Barbadian sports.
(PR)