Professional boxers Freeman "The Natural" Barr and "Tough" Theo Kruger spar on Sunday, August 15, 2010, at John Hall's Goal Post Sports Bar and Grill, in Port Charlotte.(Photo Provided)
Boxing fans received a special treat on Sunday at John Hall’s Goal Post Sports Bar & Grill in Port Charlotte.
Local and regional professional fighters put on a sparring session to promote the upcoming “War on the Peace” Tuesday night boxing series. The first show of the series kicks off August 31 at the Charlotte Harbor Event and Conference Center in Punta Gorda.
With Sunday’s temperatures flirting in the mid-90’s, spectators sought out sanctuary in scarce shaded areas. Many of those who showed came for one reason — to catch a glimpse of Port Charlotte’s “Tough” Theo Kruger.
A rugged veteran of nearly 10 years, Kruger has traveled the globe and has gained the fanfare of many for his relentlessly aggressive style of fighting.
“It’s great to have all these people show up. They all know boxing is coming back to the area,” said Kruger, who fights as a cruiserweight. “You have to get the public support, and it looks like we have that.”
Also making an appearance Sunday was Naples’ Freeman “The Natural” Barr.
A former WBO #1 rated world title contender, Barr has won five separate titles in three weight divisions and looks to bring another one back to Southwest Florida.
“You can sense everybody is excited,” Barr said. “There is a real sense of excitement going around. I can’t wait to get in the ring.”
Barr is the main event on August 31. Also on the show will be undefeated “Dynamite” Domonique Dolton. From Detroit, Dolton is trained by Hall of Famer Emanuel Steward. Steward is currently lending his services to heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko in preparation for his upcoming title fight in Germany. So taking over Steward’s duties will be Florida Boxing Hall of Famer Steve Canton of SJC Boxing in Fort Myers.
“I’ve known Emanuel for some time,” Canton said. “If he says this kid (Dolton) is good, I believe him.”
Adding excitement to the show, former Olympian and amateur champion “Silky” Wilky Campfort looks to impress and improve his record. Rounding out the show will be Tampa’s undefeated middleweight prospect “Sweet” Marquis Davis and junior middleweight Manny “Shake ‘em up” Woods.
Promoted by Jeff Brady, an NFL veteran of 9 years, August 31 looks to be an exciting night surrounded by many boxing and NFL luminaries.
Boxing headquarters is the Four Points by Sheraton, in Punta Gorda and the weigh in will take place there the evening before the event.
