Sparring Club, Dog City NYC: The Fighters’ Community

The noise hit different. The passion was real. Brooklyn brought the energy.

This wasn’t just a crowd; this was a community. It’s a family. This is Sparring Club.

The inaugural BOXRAW and The Ring event in New York City was the first of its kind and began a new chapter for boxing, giving a glimpse into the future.

Boxing now has a community-focused event that unites its people, while giving lesser-known fighters a platform to showcase their skills before going on to something bigger.

There’s no hiding under the lights of Sparring Club, as the upcoming boxers found out in Dog City.

Here’s what those fighters had to say following their rounds at the NYC event.

Sharif One

"The event was incredible! It honestly felt like stepping into ‘My Player ‘mode from NBA 2K, but for boxing. The open sparring with the guests was a major highlight, and I appreciated how the activities kept the crowd involved throughout. Even with so many match-ups, the energy stayed high, and the audience was fully locked in. As a fighter, I loved the vibe. It felt like a proving ground. Gritty but still friendly.

"The atmosphere really captured what NYC boxing is all about. I personally thrive under pressure, so the spotlight made me feel like a rising star climbing the ranks. It was motivating just being in the same space where names like Devin Haney, David Benavidez, Eddie Hearn, and His Excellency Turki Alalshikh. That kind of recognition means a lot. Overall, this was a top-tier experience. Can’t wait to be part of the next one. Appreciate the opportunity."

Danny Gonzalez

"It was a top-tier experience. The energy in the room was unreal, great talent all around, and the rounds were high-level. Events like this really help push the sport forward - raw, competitive, and full of respect. Big shoutout to the team behind the scenes for keeping everything organised and running smoothly. Much respect."

Kurt Scoby

"The experience and atmosphere at the NYC Sparring Club was amazing. The energy in the room was different. The opportunity to be seen by so many people and respected names in the fight game was big. The stage was definitely set, and I’m grateful to have been part of it. Looking forward to what’s next. Appreciate you for the love."

Tsutsumi Hayato

"I was grateful for the opportunity in New York. It was my first time in New York, and it was a very lively and bright city. The people were all warm-hearted and kind. It was an honour to be able to spar at such a great event. When I heard about the sparring, I immediately said I wanted to do it.

"It's an opportunity to practice with a variety of players, and more importantly, it's an opportunity to get to know a variety of people. The excitement at that event was incredible, and I was happy to hear many people say it was great sparring. I'm sure this sparring session will be useful in my future career. I look forward to the Sparring Club in the future."

Junior Younan

"It was a dope event. Seeing a bunch of great fighters go at it. Really showed the essence of New York boxing."

Damari Philson

"The event was amazing, production, commentary, match-ups and energy. The hospitality was great too. Thank you all for that and for highlighting my skills to the world by streaming the event. Honestly, it felt like an actual fight; it wasn’t just sparring to me, but I had fun and made the most out of the opportunity, and I greatly appreciate that."

Malachi Thomas

"It was an overall great experience, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity feel. It was great for the boxing community and upcoming NYC fighters to be a part of something like that. My experience was good; I just wanted to go out there and be efficient with the time I had. I know Turki Alalshikh didn’t want to see boring fighting, and my style goes with excitement, so I didn’t have to do anything but be myself in there, and the fans enjoyed it."

Justin Penaranda

"The NYC Sparring Club was a great experience. The energy in the room was real, and it felt good to be surrounded by a community that supports fighters like that. The match-ups were solid. The world champions being there, like Devin Haney and Brian Norman Jr, gave everyone a chance to really showcase their skills. Overall, it was well organised and ran smoothly. Shout out to the BOXRAW team for putting it together and giving us the platform. I look forward to the next one."

Marquis Taylor

"It was a great experience. Thankful for the exposure. I almost didn’t make it. I had a four-hour layover before I finally got to New York. I had to get an Uber straight from the airport because I was late. But it all worked out in the end."

Cornellio Phipps

"My overall experience was great. I enjoyed showcasing some of my talent. It was great to be seen by top people like Turki Alalshikh and Eddie Hearn. I hope I get the opportunity to come back out to NYC for more opportunities. A lot of amazing talent for sure, and a lot of great gear."

Rashidi Ellis

"NYC Sparring Club was an impressive overall experience. I had fun being able to showcase my skills, and the crowd was supportive and respectful. Eric Kelly did a great job working the evening and showcasing his knowledge of boxing. I would attend again, and if you’re not there, you’re missing out. This isn’t your average backyard brawl - this is where real fighters show up, and real fans show out."

Jalil Hackett

"It was an honour to be part of the NYC Sparring Club. The event was well put together, and the energy in the room was unmatched. I really enjoyed being able to showcase my skills, connect with other talented fighters, and represent at a high level. Big respect to the whole team for creating that kind of atmosphere - you can tell a lot of passion and effort went into making it happen. I’d definitely love to be involved in future events and continue building with y’all."

Saleh Ali

"I think it was an amazing event for every fighter who wanted to showcase their talent. I had a great time. I love that you guys did this, and I hope to be in any future events you guys have. Keep up the good work."

Ahmad Muhammad Jones

"It was a great experience for all the fighters around the States. I think it was a well-organised event, especially for the audiences who don’t box but decided to tune in and watch."

Ray Cuadrado

"The event from a spectator's perspective was great. Those who came early really got to enjoy the full benefits. The gear package was amazing. Everyone I know was happy to get in on the warehouse sale as well."

Luke Bibby

"It was an amazing event with a great atmosphere and awesome sparring. Amazingly run, especially for it being the first event. Looking forward to the next."

Nikita Ababiy

"Sparring Club went insane. I didn’t know what to expect going into this, but what you guys put on was awesome. It was a thrilling experience."

DuShane Crooks

"Sparring Club was definitely an exciting experience. I believe you guys should make it a thing every few months. Maybe every state just to get more fighters out there to be seen."

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Sparring Club NYC changed the game. Unfiltered. Unforgiving. Unprecedented. London, get ready. LFG!