Taking fancy footwork into the boxing ring

Former WHS student Ardon England is preparing for a charity boxing match in Auckland in October; stepping off the dance floor and into the boxing ring.
PHOTO / Stuart Munro

From the dance floor to the canvas.

Ardon England will be hoping his dancing skills can transfer to the boxing ring when he takes part in a charity boxing match in Auckland this October.

Ardon was MC at the same MJT Events fight night last year before he was asked to come back as a fighter in one of this year's headline fights.

The Whanganui man moved to Auckland last year to pursue a career in dance and hopes his first foray into boxing will come naturally.

"In terms of my dance I've got that rhythm," he said.

"And it will help in learning punches because they're all numbered. The footwork's a little bit different but it's all got that rhythm and it's all technique so I'm learning fast which is good."

Proceeds from ticket sales and an auction at the October 7 event will got to the Mental Health Foundation.

"That's something I've always been real passionate about."

England will be taking on Daniel Takawe in three two-minute rounds.

"I don't think I'm scared.

"I know I will be closer to the time. I think the pressure of it is scary and someone's got to lose, so I hope it's not me, and I'm doing everything I can to make sure it's not."

He's been training four times a week in preparation.

"I think it's fun. I actually really, really enjoy it."

By Zaryd Wilson
Wanganui Chronicle 26/8/17