In a powerful event co-hosted by wrestling legend Ric Flair and UFC icon Tyron Woodley, a boxing match at Harrah’s Casino served as a platform to highlight critical discussions about mental health. The evening attracted notable figures, including boxing legend Michael Spinks and rapper Charli Baltimore, shining a spotlight on the importance of mental wellness within the community.
As the packed crowd buzzed with anticipation, seasoned professionals, first-time fighters, and social media influencers all gathered outside the locker rooms, preparing to face off in what they described as more than just a match.
Angela Cottone, a contender in last year’s War at the Shore, emphasized the sense of camaraderie among the competitors.
“These boxers aren’t just athletes showing up for a match and leaving when it’s done. We’re a family,” Cottone said.
The event took on new meaning for Cottone, whose motivation stems from the tragic loss of her son, Vincent, who died by suicide several years ago.
She urged others struggling with mental health issues to seek help and encouraged parents to maintain open dialogues with their children about mental wellness.
The first of ten bouts kicked off with a match between Raji Phares and Arsenio Castillo, amidst a backdrop of cheers and nervous energy.
Fighters squared off for three rounds in exhibition-style contests, while retired athletes took the opportunity to share their personal stories of overcoming mental health challenges between fights.
Damon Feldman, the organizer of the event, highlighted the dual mental and physical struggles faced by fighters, reiterating the importance of discussing mental health openly.
“Our fighters, including me, go through a lot mentally and physically. That’s one of the reasons why we talk about mental health—to encourage everyone to get the help they need so they can become the best versions of themselves,” Feldman said.
In a poignant moment, Anita Carrington took the microphone to share her family’s heartbreaking journey after her eight-year-old son became a quadriplegic following a hit-and-run accident two months ago.
“My son may never walk again, and that’s going to cause great mental stress for him and our family,” Carrington said, highlighting the uncertainty that looms over their future.
Her emotional testimony resonated with many in attendance, as she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak at such an important event.
“Damon let me go into the center of that boxing ring and talk about how hard it will be for my little boy to stay happy and mentally balanced in life. I’m blessed to have been a part of this,” she told reporters.
Feldman shared a personal connection to Carrington’s struggle, revealing that he had also faced significant challenges in his life.
His own mother, a victim of domestic abuse, became a quadriplegic during his childhood. Yet, she found ways to remain resilient, using her talent for painting even after her ordeal.
“Seeing her do that, how could I have ever acted depressed or angry around her? Mom was beating those demons, so we can too,” Feldman reflected.
As the event concluded, it was clear that the boxing match had transcended the sport itself, uniting the community to foster important conversations around mental health and resilience.
image source from：metrophiladelphia
