Firefighters and Police Fight in Charity Boxing Match

Eager spectators filled UTC’s McClellan Gym waiting to watch Hamilton County Police officers and Firefighters took it to the ring for the 7th annual Gun and Hoses Battle of the Badges charity boxing event.

Director of the event, Joe Smith, said it’s important that the law enforcement and fire department participate in the event.

“We just thought it’d be a great morale booster for those two departments. Plus, it’s vitally important that police and the firemen get involved in our respective programs.”

The event helps raise funds for the Forgotten Child Fund and YCAP.

Sergeant Charlie Brown said the money raised helps keep focused and on the right path.

“It’s a great outreach program for inner city youth to give them another alternative of something productive and positive to do with their live. instead of getting in trouble after school.”

There were 11 bouts with 3 different rounds in each.

Each competitor walks away with a belt.

The men have been working hard to step into ring.

Captain Keith Lyes said he’s been training for months.

“i usually train year round for it, kind of. uh not really extensively but i try to stay in shape for it at least.”

Police Chief Fred Fetcher said he’s proud of both the fire and police departments.

“These are guys who literally take it on the chin day in and day out and there out here in the ring putting themselves out in front of the community in order to raise awareness and money for a great program.”

Many are wondering if we will see Police Chief Fletcher and Fire Chief Adams stepping in the ring next year.

“I’ve tried to get chief Adams to compete with me but he saw me sparring a little bit and i think he was not comfortable getting in the ring with me. If you guys put pressure on him Chief Adams and i will get in the ring.”

It was a close outcome.
Chattanooga Police Department won 5 bouts…but it was Firefighters who took home the most belts, winning 6 bouts.
The next event benefiting YCAP will be in April.