Ulster Kickboxing get their kit off!

Christmas is coming and there may a frosty nip in the air but it hasn't stopped a gang of kickboxers stripping to their bare essentials for charity.

The quartet, who all train at the ProKick Gym in east Belfast, got their kit off ahead of fights in the Ulster Hall on December 22. The event, the Kickmas Box, will help raise cash for Age Concern.

Each of the four men pictured - Belfast's world champion Gary Hamilton, Brian Boyd, Michael Harkins and Nick Baird - were at first reluctant to strip down to little more than their boxing gloves, but they were reminded that Christmas is a time of giving... and this was to be their gift.

"When I first suggested the shoot, they all said no," said their coach Billy Murray. "They were not keen at all on the Full Monty. But I reminded them that it was Christmas and for a good cause and they soon got their clothes off. What's more, they loved it! There were a lot of jokes about Christmas Boxes. It'll be a challenge to make sure they wear shorts when they do get into the ring."

He added: "Prokick has helped raise funds for Age Concern in the past because we recognize the great work they do for older people in the local community and beyond. We're delighted to be able to help. These guys are so keen, they're looking for other charities that they can strip for."

Helping preserve a little dignity for the quartet is Stephanie Davidson, a ProKick fighter and sometime ring-girl.

"The boys were always telling me how big their punch was," she said. "I'm still not convinced."

"Winter is a testing time for older vulnerable people in Northern Ireland," said Tara Steele, Age Concern Fundraising Officer. "It's great that Billy and the Kickboxing community are doing this to help raise awareness of issues and also raise funds to help us maintain vital services. We really appreciate their support."

Ireland's two biggest kickboxing stars, Gary Hamilton and Gary Noade, share top billing at the Kickmas Box extravaganza. A packed house at the Ulster Hall will see 1,500 fight fans packed in to see the festive feast of fist and feet. It will round off a triumphant year for the sport in spectacular fashion.
Only limited tickets are now available, call ProKick and affiliated gyms on 02890651074 or the Ulster Hall box office 02890 323900.

Pictures by: Gordon Johnston

Back to news