Charity boxing match sends London firefighters to Madison Square Garden
Iain Hoey
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Firefighters compete in New York charity bouts
Two London firefighters took part in the third International Battle of the Badges charity boxing match at Madison Square Garden in New York.
Dominik Burridge and Shane Mendoza were selected to represent London against American opponents at the event, which raised $50,000 for several American firefighter charities.
Cruiserweight Mendoza, from North Kensington Blue Watch, faced Sam Kelly from New York Fire Department (FDNY) Engine 1.
Light heavyweight Burridge, from Fulham Green Watch, faced Gavin Conner from the Denver Fire Department.
Burridge lost on a split decision. Mendoza lost against a more experienced boxer.
Just over half of the 14 bouts on the card were won by FDNY and the American firefighters.
This is believed to be the first time firefighters from London and New York have officially met in the ring in almost 40 years.
In 1987, firefighters from both services met at a charity event hosted by the Brigade in Bloomsbury.
Boxing team coach on the London bouts
Firefighter Charlie Beatt, coach of the Brigade’s boxing team, said: “It has been an amazing opportunity for the Brigade’s boxing team to be invited to take part in this event, facing up against the best New York has to offer.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work that Dominik and Shane put into preparing for their bouts, and while we didn’t win, they showed the determination you find in every London firefighter.
“Now it is all about what comes next, and what a potential rematch might look like in the future.”
Outreach plans linked to Brigade boxing
London Fire Brigade also said boxing within the Brigade supports work with young people across London.
LFB Boxing runs a 10-week programme centred on coaching, positive role modelling and regular exercise for young people.
The club is led by Beatt and is seeking to expand the boxing outreach programme across London.
Plans include turning space at one of the Brigade’s fire stations in the London Borough of Croydon into a community boxing gym.
Boxing clubs with facilities that can help set up the scheme are being encouraged to get in touch.