La Gente Boxing Brings Regional Clubs Together for Community Showdown
BRAWLEY — La Gente Boxing hosted its long-awaited return to the local fight scene this past weekend with “When Forces Collide,” a boxing showcase featuring athletes from across Imperial Valley and beyond. The event drew a strong turnout, with trainers estimating over 500 in attendance—surpassing expectations and reinvigorating local interest in community boxing.
The evening opened with a performance of the national anthem by a local vocalist, setting a patriotic tone before the first bout began. Participating gyms included Sparta Boxing, La Familia Boxing, Calexico Boxing Academy, Diaz Training Center, and House of Jackals. Several agencies were also represented, with fighters from Centinela State Prison, the U.S. Marine Corps/La Gente Boxing, Brawley Police Boxing Academy, and the Imperial Irrigation District taking part. The event took place in the parking lot of Legacy MD medical groups facility in Brawley
Among the notable figures in attendance was Brawley Mayor Gil Rebollar, who also served as one of the three official judges. “It’s really great. These are amazing people, amazing fights. These young men and women are putting it out there and giving us a show,” Rebollar said in an interview.
The main event featured Ceasar Avila (185 lbs) of the Imperial County Sheriff’s Office and House of Jackals, facing off against Mike Montes (178 lbs) from Diaz Training Center. After an intense match, Avila came away with the victory.
For La Gente Boxing, the event marks more than just an evening of competition—it’s a step toward long-term growth.
“We like to challenge ourselves,” said Pablo Cortez, head trainer at La Gente Boxing. “The resources and money we make from these events allow us to give back to our kids—take them to different tournaments and give them more exposure.”
Assistant coach Edward Estrada added that the event’s proceeds are being reinvested into the gym. “There are tournaments coming up, and we’re raising money for a vehicle to transport our team. It’s about investing back into our kids.”
Cortez noted that the gym initially planned for 450 seats but had to quickly bring in an additional 100 as ticket sales surged. “That’s real good for us, especially after not hosting an event like this in over nine or ten years,” he said. “It’s inspired us. We’re already planning the next one.”
Some of the matches involved youth fighters participating in exhibition bouts. “They’re not amateur yet,” said Estrada. “They’re working toward that.” Cortez clarified that youth boxers not yet registered with USA Boxing can only compete in exhibition-style events. “No decisions, just exposure and opportunity,” he explained.
Estrada closed by thanking all the gyms and community members who showed their support. “Even those that came from out of town—thank you for making this happen for us.”
La Gente Boxing said the event came together over the course of just one month and expressed confidence that more community events are on the horizon.