The recent fundraiser charity event held in Southern California was a heart warming
success, bringing together a community dedicated to supporting fighters in need.
Founded by Alan Santana, a former featherweight boxing champion and inductee into
the Boxing Hall of Fame and Paul Varela, a friend and professional bowler, this charity
was born out of a deep desire to give back to those who gave so much to the sport of
boxing. Organizers included John “Iceman” Scully, based in New Jersey, who had a
notable boxing career and is currently a boxing analyst and trainer. John often auctions
boxing memorabilia to support fighters in need. 
The event, a lively bowling competition, attracted numerous fighters and former fighters,
all of whom came out to show their support. These athletes, many of whom retired with
little financial security, have spent their lives training and competing in a sport that often
left them without sufficient means for a stable retirement. The average retired fighter
earns less than $15,000 a year, a stark contrast to the dedication and energy they
poured into their careers. Beyond financial struggles, many of these fighters face
enormous medical bills, adding to their burden.
Sponsors generously provided items for auction and prizes, contributing to the event’s
success. Sabrina and Del Rio Lanes were among the sponsors as well as Mauricio
Sulaiman, President of the WBC World Boxing Council; Roy Englebrecht, Roy
Englebrecht Promotions; All Star Boxing (Commerce Casino), John Struckman, owner
of The Professional Approach Pro Shops, General Truck Supply (Providing Supplies for
Professional Bowlers), Gene Aguilera, Author and Boxing Historian. 
The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and fun, with participants enjoying a great
time while bowling for a cause that resonated deeply with everyone involved, including
celebrities like Wil Lopez (Candy Cane Lane), Actor/Producer Lou Pizarro (Operation
Repo), Actor/Author/Radio Host Steve Russo, Actor Derek Hartstock (Rogue Cops),
ex-professional Boxer turned actor Gregory Puente, PJ Bollinger, Director of Cedar
Films, Christian Alan, Director, Tina Marie Puente, Vocalist, Juan Bustamonte, Actor on
Divorce Court, Mike “Hercules” Weaver, former WBA Heavyweight Champion Paul
Banke, former WBC Bantam Weight Champion, Floyd, Lloyd, and Troy (The Weaver
Triplets), former Professional boxers, Dianna Aguirre, professor (Mindset Solutions),
Dee Collier, former heavyweight contender, Brenda Zaragoza, WBC Board Member,
who also presented the awards.
Boxing, often described as “the sweet science,” demands an extraordinary level of physical
prowess, discipline, and dedication. Yet, the reality for many professional boxers is that their careers, while intense and often brief, can leave them in precarious situations once the spotlight fades. Unlike athletes in some other sports, boxers rarely benefit from long-term contracts, pension plans, or substantial retirement savings. When their careers end, many find themselves without the resources necessary to navigate the next chapter of their lives.
Boxing careers are often short-lived, with most fighters peaking in their 20s or early 30s. While some go on to coach or commentate, many find that the transition from the ring to a stable post-fighting career is fraught with challenges. The income that once flowed from prize money and endorsements dries up, and if a fighter has not carefully planned or saved, they are left vulnerable. Medical issues such as brain injuries or chronic pain from years of training and fighting can further complicate their ability to work or maintain financial stability. 
The financial instability that affects many retired fighters is not just an individual issue—it’s a systemic problem that requires community and industry involvement to solve. Boxers entertain millions and often put their health and well-being on the line for their fans. It’s crucial that we, as a society, recognize their contributions and create systems to provide the support they need after their careers have ended.
Supporting boxers in need can take many forms. Fundraisers and benefit events, like celebrity bowling matches, auctions, and special appearances by retired fighters, help raise much-needed money for those struggling with medical bills, daily living expenses, and other financial burdens.
However, we must also push for structural change within the industry—advocating for financial literacy programs for young fighters, pension funds, and medical care to ensure that boxers don’t fall through the cracks.
It’s time to give back to those who have given so much to the sport. By raising awareness and providing financial support to former fighters, we can create a future where boxers no longer face the fear of financial ruin after their careers. Let’s ensure that the legacy of these warriors is honored, not just in the ring, but in how we care for them long after they leave it.
Alan Santana’s vision for this event is to make it an annual tradition, ensuring that the boxing community continues to come together to support its own, offering much-needed
assistance with basic needs such as medical and housing assistance to those who have
given so much of themselves to the sport.
