Eastleigh boxer takes it one fight at a time
“I went up against a southpaw fighter for the first time. It was one of the toughest fights I’ve had in my career.”
Local boxer Roarke Knapp has high aspirations of becoming an internationally known boxer.
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The 19-year-old, who trains at the Eastleigh-based Team Sweat Box, is ranked third in the South African junior middleweight category.
Knapp began boxing as an amateur at 16 but after a year decided to box professionally.
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Since then Knapp has had six fights, five knock-out wins and no losses.
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“I took up boxing as a way to defend myself from bullies when I was younger,” said Knapp.
“Since taking up the sport, boxing has built up my confidence.”
Knapp started boxing at the age of nine. Only at the age of 16 did he take the sport more seriously.
“When Roarke first came to me he did not know much, I taught him all the basics,” said Domenico ‘Mimmo’ Spirito, Knapp’s trainer.
“Since then he has grown exponentially. I am 100 per cent sure he will become a great boxer.”
At the moment Knapp, with the assistance of Mimmo, is working on his boxing record.
“We are taking things really slow, we don’t want to make any mistakes or take on an unnecessary fight,” said Knapp.
Despite having a flawless record Knapp’s last match was his hardest.
“I went up against a southpaw fighter for the first time. It was one of the toughest fights I’ve had in my career,” said Knapp.
Despite the challenge, Knapp was victorious.
“Through boxing, I have realised that no matter what stands in my way I can always overcome it,” explained Knapp.
Knapp hopes to one day give back to others who are being bullied.
“I have thought about holding a workshop or something similar for children but I just don’t have time,” said Knapp.
On average Knapp trains between two to three hours a day when he is not cutting hair for a living.
“Because of all my training I miss out on a lot of family events but my family understands and they are supportive of my dream,” said Knapp.
Mimmo explained that in order for Knapp to become an even better boxer he needs a sponsor.
“By having a sponsor it will help Roarke and the other boxers at the gym,” explained Mimmo.
A sponsorship will assist with equipment and supplement costs.
To assist with a sponsorship contact Mimmo on 083 729 3000.
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