I must admit I have found myself really looking forward to the MBV Masters Boxing Victoria events, the people, the organisation, the boxers, the volunteers and the whole event are a complete experience that is not comparable to other shows. It’s a family community and I am always eager to see the changes and adaptations the organisers have put in place at each event.
This event was no different, I walked in the venue and straight away could see a beautiful and may I say sexy Masters Boxing Victoria branded boxing ring along with a whole new lighting rig and live stream commentary team. This was going to be another cracking night of Masters Boxing.
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As usual the show was split into 2 sessions and was stacked with Masters boxing bouts with competitors ranging from 34 years old to 73 years old, with all experience levels.
The show started with a dedication to the recently departed Masters MC Bass – there was a beautiful video dedicated to his memory along with a massive applause from the crowd. RIP Bass
The show started with a cracking bout between Chan Sinnadurai age 50 and Kevin Beleik age 54 in the novice 86kg division. This was a great match up and an awesome way to start the show. Kevin came out composed and looking to control the ring, whilst Chan moved using long rangy shots to keep Kevin at bay.
As the bout progressed Chan changed his tempo in the later rounds making it more of a fight than he probably needed to, but Kevin kept his pace and stayed with him always being a danger with the obvious power he possesses in each hand.
Chan took the decision but it was the perfect way to start a show demonstrating what Masters Boxing is all about.
A highlight of the night was a WBF Title bout featuring 2 highly respected and well-known boxers from Victoria. Gary Patto – 69 Years of age took on Kevin Mack 73 years of age for the belt.
These 2 boxers had recently competed against each other and it ended in a split decision win to Gary, so both boxers had a point to prove and a belt to win.
Gary pushed the pace driving forward and worked some creative combos when in close, Kevin was more comfortable utilising the jab from range and long simple 1 2 combinations.
The crowd got very involved in this bout as every person could really respect these fellas who had a combined age of 142 demonstrating skills and fitness many of us wish we could possess.
Kevin managed to take the win – but I am certain these two have started a rivalry that will continue into 2023.
If you know Masters Boxing in Victoria then you know of Mark Galea, he is a veteran of Masters boxing, highly experienced and has held multiple weight division titles from state to Australian. He is also a highly respected coach, sparring partner and a gentleman like so many in MBV.
His opponent to many is an unknown quantity from Perth, I actually met him at the last MBV event where I saw him demonstrate his skill against MBV Host Wayne Kong-Gardiner. Adam is also a highly experienced boxer with over 100 bouts in his pocket along with being probably the nicest bloke I have ever met.
With these 2 experienced boxers punching it out for the title we expected a cracker and that’s exactly what we got.
Adam came out gunning in the first round using his speed and combinations to push Mark on the ropes and stamp his authority on the bout. Adam obviously came to win.
In the 2nd round Mark started to move and switch his attacks up and down and down and up – utilising his head movement to catch Adam with solid powerful combinations in between his attacks. The 3rd round continued with both boxers pressing hard and you could hear it in the crowd as the volume rose and fell with each punch landing. The final round and it was all still to play for – both boxers not showing any fatigue and keeping their technique scoring blows till the very end.
The decision went to Adam on a split points result – to be honest it did not matter – both these boxers are champions and I would pay to watch them go at it again. This bout could have been on any stage across Australia and any show – respect to you gentlemen.
Daniel Tarwala (Yep Peters brother) was up against James Chapman, both these boxers were an unknown quantity as were having their debut at the event. In the first round you could see that Daniel had superior footwork and James had heart and desire. As the bout progressed Daniel utilised a superb jab to keep James at bay and to be honest it was probably the deciding factor of bout.
The amazing thing about this bout was the interview at the end, when we heard just like so many Masters – the personal journey of James Chapman. He had an accident 20 years ago resulting in multiple breaks in his neck and spine being told he would never walk again. Yet here he was 20 years on and competing in a boxing match showcasing his amazing heart and resilience for life. An amazing individual.
One of the highlight bouts of the night was Chris Peters vs Joel Eastwood for the MBV State title. Both these boxers at 71kg looked in amazing shape and were both remarkably tall for the weight category.
They went straight at it from the opening bell – long rangy and fast footwork looking like 18-year-olds and not Masters boxers. The bout went from one boxer gaining the upper hand to the other and both boxers could be seen biting down on the mouthguard and digging in to try and secure the win.
Joel managed to push through and take the title but I personally think these two boxers are to be noted as I think they will cause problems for any opponent.
Another amazing experience created by the team at MBV & the amazing Masters community. I cannot explain how these events make me feel as a person, I have met and become friends with so many like-minded people who have a passion for life and for other people. The whole night was constant discussions about Mental Health Awareness – charity work – deep stories from individuals expressing themselves to try and help others. I am very grateful for MBV bringing the sport of Masters Boxing to the Victorian Community and am anticipating it only growing bigger and better.
I did try and get an interview with Wayne or Tommy but as usual they asked me to focus on the Boxers as it’s all about them and nothing else (Amazing attitudes).
A massive shout out to MBV – what a show – what a team of volunteers and amazing people.
Article by Craig Uphill