FLORIDA FIGHT NIGHT
FM Gladiators Boxing Gym owner takes up the call to fly out of state for a fight
There’s a competitive spark still charged up in 39-year-old Ernie Marquez and his boxing gloves.
Boxing coach and owner of Fort Morgan Gladiators Boxing Gym flew to Florida in late Januar y. He had gotten a call about an oppor tunity to fill an open spot in a boxing match at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida.
That match was with the 2016 Cuban Olympic bronze medalist and multiple time amateur world champion Joahnys Argilagos, according to Marquez.
While it was only a three-day notice to make it to Florida for the fight, Marquez and his coaching team “stepped up to the plate!” Marquez said.
Marquez took with him Coach David Bell from
Gladiators Boxing Gym and Steve Mestas from House of Pain Boxing Gym.
The match lasted four rounds, with an end result of a 39-37 decision.
“We lost a decision but put on a great performance!”
Marquez was quite grateful following the fight.
“We appreciate all the love and support!” Marquez said after returning to Fort Morgan. “39 years old and still a true Gladiator!”
He credited his family, including his Fort Morgan Gladiators Boxing Gym family, and his passion for boxing as why he is still boxing in big fights like the most recent one in Florida.
“I do it for my team, I do it for my family, I do it for the love I have for the sport!” Marquez said. “Thank you all so much, you have no idea how grateful I am for all the love and suppor t! We will continue to keep our community strong!”