CORNWALL, Ontario – Saturday, Apr. 15 is shaping up to be a historic night of boxing as Cornwall’s Tony “Lightning” Luis takes on Noe “El Dengue” Nuñez in a 10-round lightweight clash. After nine years, Luis finally gets the chance to fight in his own hometown.
“It’s been a long time coming,” said Luis. “I didn’t think this day was going to come for the simple reason that I never fought in my home province, let alone my hometown.” Previously, the sport’s athletic commission upheld strict standards which gave boxers little agency in their fight schedules. However, with big changes happening at the top, athletes now have more flexibility than ever before.
“That’s one of the big reasons we could make this happen,” said Luis. “In a way, it worked out for the best because before I was a prospect, and now I’ve established myself as a real world-class professional, and get the chance to showcase my abilities back home.”
Luis says that he’s constantly humbled by the community support he receives, and he’s eager for Cornwall to finally get the opportunity to experience one of his fights. “Fighting in front of a full hometown crowd, I know I’m going to be more emotionally driven than usual,” said Luis.
In terms of preparation, Luis has learned a great deal from father and trainer, Jorge Luis. “Work ethic, independence, and learning to stand up for myself – those are all big lessons that I’ve learned from my dad,” said Luis. “I’ve always worked very hard, and been dedicated to my craft. I’m always looking for ways to improve myself.”
In addition to enjoying a tremendous amount of success with his boxing career, Luis also has a full-time job at a youth treatment centre in Akwesasne. “It really forced me to master time management and not make excuses,” said Luis. “Sometimes, I don’t know how I’ve made it work, but when you love something deep enough, you find ways.”
Also on the card are Akwesasne’s Ronnie Robidoux and Larry Fryers of upper NY State, with both training at Champs Eastside Boxing in Cornwall, under Jorge Luis’ instruction.
“It’s further proof to what I’ve always told people; I won’t be the only pro that’s coming out of this gym,” said Luis.
Tickets start at $25, and can be purchased online at www.admission.com, by phone (613) 938-9400, or in person at the Civic Complex box office.
