Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for impact as some of the most talented and determined Public Safety boxers in California face-off in a night of USA Amateur Boxing April 20, 2013 at the Richmond PAL Sports Complex.

The undercard of this UCA Championship Triple Header will feature some exciting matchups between top ranked fighters and future champions.

The first bout will feature a middleweight Showdown between 8^th ranked Brent “Never in a Bad Fight” Burkhart, CDCR DVI vs. LAPD’s Quincy Mirage. Both fighters find themselves in a must win situation. Burkhart was on the losing end of a razor close decision to Pittsa Pholkham, U.S. Marines. Mirage lost a close fight with 4^th ranked Erik Ramirez, LASD. Both guys have huge hearts and have the skills to compete with anyone in the division. You can be guaranteed a nonstop all action bout when these two fighters step into the ring. Don’t look for the judges to be involved in this one.

A fight everyone will need to be in their seat for is 7th ranked Pittsa Pholkham, U.S. Marines vs. Brandon Manning, LASD. These two promising boxers only know one way to fight and that is to come forward and throw bombs. Before any punches are thrown, this matchup has “Fight of the Night” written all over it.

The only female fight on the card will feature two #1 ranked boxers. Julie “J Cat” Williams, (4-0) CDCR San Quentin vs. Stephanie Sparks,(3-0) LASD at a catch weight of 175lbs. Both fighters are exceptional athletes and are looking forward to the challenge. This will be both fighters biggest test.

Rounding out this Public Safety Boxing under card will be Heavyweights Craig Hamblin, CDCR Solano vs. 6th ranked Sonny “Sunshine” Gerber, Grover Beach PD. On paper this fight is one sided. Hamblin is 0-3, older, with less experience. Gerber is more athletic, 3-2 as a boxer, 4-0 Muay Thai and 1-1-1 MMA. Hamblin is coming into the fight with a new found motivation and confidence. He left longtime trainer Mel Walker, and is now training at LA Boxing under Marcus Reaves. “I am 0-3 and people should be lining up to fight me but I feel sorry for the first dude I fight. I cannot wait until April 20th” Hamblin said.

Six of the best Public Safety boxers collide for the UCA State Championship Title.The first title fight of the night features one of Public Safety’s fastest rising young talents, UCA NorCal Champion Brent Bugarin, Santa Clara SD. Bugarin will face the toughest challenge of his boxing career when he steps into the ring with 3x Police Olympic Gold Medalist Jorge “The Baby Face Assassin” Caamal, LASD. On the line will be the vacant UCA Welterweight State Championship Title.

The co main event features 2nd ranked Rahsaan Harrison, LASD vs. 4^th ranked Cleon Jones, Yolo Co Corrections. Both fighter’s athletic ability and skill set have earned them a title shot. Harrison will be traveling from Los Angeles for his opportunity to become the first Super Heavyweight Champion and he is preparing for a war with Jones.  Harrison has the higher level of opposition and experience advantage. Jones got into the fight game late however his athletic background has caught him up to the top guys in the division. Jones is ready to take that next step and capture the UCA Super Heavyweight belt. “I’m not getting any younger, my opportunity is now” Jones said.  Jones being a natural southpaw may give him an advantage. The southpaw stance could cause problems for the 2nd ranked fighter; Harrison has faced one southpaw in his 10 fight career and he won. Jones and Harrison are the same size, same speed, power and athleticism. Both fighters are excited about the opportunity in front of them and look forward to the challenge. The winner of this fight will be crowned the New UCA Super Heavyweight State Champion. Neither fighter is looking past each other however waiting in the shadows is the #1 ranked mandatory title challenger Mike Gomez, CDCR CSP SAC.

The main event features the Light Heavyweight State Champion and future UCA Hall of Famer, James “Doin Damage” Davis, CDCR Folsom Prison vs. #1 ranked Matt Wurdinger, Santa Clara PD.  Davis looks to defend his title and continue his dominance with a signature win. Davis will be stepping into the ring with a talented, well rounded, hungry lion who wants what he has. The 7-1 Police Olympic Gold Medalist, Wurdinger is a ring warrior who comes to fight. Wurdinger has a lethal combination of athleticism, skill and power and may be the only person to possibly stop Davis’s division dominance. If you are boxing fan or just a fan that appreciates watching top level athletes compete this is an event you don’t want to miss.  April 20, 2013, Richmond PAL Sports Complex. Tickets are on sale now. General 15.00, Ringside 25.00.

Two of the most explosive welterweights in Public Safety will go toe to toe in the ring for the UCA Welterweight State Championship. The #1 ranked Jr Middleweight Jorge “The Baby Face Assassin” Caamal, LASD is dropping down to the welterweight division to challenge the #1 ranked, undefeated Brent Bugarin, Santa Clara SD for the UCA State Title. Speed, power, high level counter punching, and a vicious body attack are all traits of these two fighters. Caamal has more experience and has a lot of weapons in his arsenal. The higher level of competition and huge experience advantage for Caamal could be the difference in the fight. Bugarin is a former Sac State Football standout and has brought his athleticism to the ring and hasn’t missed a beat. With only three fights and three wins over top ranked opponents Bugarin knows what it takes to win. Caamal and Bugarin will test their hard hitting, all action style against one another Saturday April 20th. This fight could be on the undercard of a Pay-Per-View Canelo Alvarez or Manny Pacquiao fight. Bugarin and Caamal are fighters who push the pace to finish fights. This can only mean one thing; fireworks will be going off when they start throwing grenades at each other. Don’t miss this fight as Caamal and Bugarin look to etch their name into the UCA history books by becoming the first UCA Welterweight State Champion.

The UCA Boxing Championship Triple Header will kick off the first Public Safety event of 2013 with some long overdue matchups.  Don’t miss your chance to see the best Public Safety boxers and USA Boxing amateurs compete on the same card, April 20, at the Richmond PAL Sports Complex. The talent level on this card is at an all-time high.

Brent Bugarin, Santa Clara SD has stormed through the competition in the welterweight division delivering three highlight reel performances along the way to capturing the UCA NorCal Welterweight Title.  With victories over Marc Baes, CDCR Solano Prison, Angel Vasquez, LASD and Neil Tremethick, ARMY. Bugarin is primed and ready to put on another explosive performance against Caamal, LASD.  Bugarin has the luxury of getting instruction and sparring from top level coaches and fighters every time he goes into The Kennel Boxing gym. Having good trainers and believing in them goes a long way especially in a close fight.  Trainers, Arvin and Brian Jugarap seem to be masters when it comes to game planning for a big fight. Bugarin trusts and believes in his trainers which explains his confidence level in the ring and his ability to execute the game plan set out for him. Bugarin is a humble fighter who credits his success to the support of his coaches, sparring partners, friends, family and the Santa Clara Sheriff Dept.  And it’s been said boxing is not a team sport.

Aside from being the 3X Police Olympic Gold Medalist and #1 ranked Jr. Middleweight, Jorge Caamal, LASD is a ring warrior who has come up the hard way. He has fought some of the best Public Safety boxers in the game. Caamal is most remembered for his 3 epic battles with former #1 ranked, Police Olympic Gold Medalist Ivan Guillermo, LAPD. Caamal has also fought the top fighters from the U.S. Marines Boxing Team and NYPD Boxing Team. He has fought guys who were heavier and with more experience just so he could fight. Over the years Caamal has established himself as the best Jr Middleweight in California. He was a stablemate of Francisco “Panchito” Bajado, had the privilege to spar with professional fighters, and world champions. Caamal had the honor of having conditioning coach/trainer Rob Garcia work his corner in the 2006 Police Olympics, Gold Medal bout against former #1 ranked David Bermudez, East Bay Reg. Parks PD. The fight was very close, and Garcia may have been the difference in Caamal receiving a Gold Medal instead of a Silver Medal. Having a proven trainer in your corner is so important. Trainers with experience know how to keep their fighters calm and give them the direction they need to come out on top. Caamal trains at the Chino Boxing Club with top notch trainers Ray Morales, and Abraham Ortega. Once a week he trains with his original trainer Gilbert Alcantara at the Eddie Heredia Boxing Club in East LA. Team Caamal is working on a game plan to defeat Brent Bugarin, Santa Clara SD, April 20, 2013 and bring the title back with them to Los Angeles.

Since Bugarin started boxing he has been perfect in the ring and hopes to continue his run all the way to the UCA State Championship. He captured the UCA NorCal title in Oct, 2012 by defeating the highly skilled Neil Tremethick, U.S. Army by decision. Now his eyes are set on Jorge Caamal, LASD. Caamal is a battle tested warrior who has been in some wars and has come out on the other side a better fighter. Caamal has proven he can deal with adversity in the ring something his opponent hasn’t faced yet. Neither fighter wants to lose and will do whatever they have to do to win.

Let the countdown begin…

CDCR, Folsom Prison, James “Doin Damage” Davis, is the UCA Light Heavyweight State Champion. Davis is a student of the game who has perfected his craft. His work ethic, dedication and focus, is unwavering. Davis is a dangerous fighter because he is fearless and is willing to take chances to become a better boxer. He is also a workaholic and believes the fight is won in the gym. Davis trains with the same intensity with which he fights. He is a complete fighter. It’s been said; once you are a champion you become a better fighter. It has also been said, you are not a true champion until you defend your title. Davis has always wanted to fight the best and he will face the best April 20, 2013 to define himself as a true champion. His opponent Matt Wurdinger is a name people may not be familiar with. He is a NorCal Golden Gloves Champion and Police Olympic Gold Medalist. If anyone can dethrone Davis it’s Wurdinger. Wurdinger earned his title shot by beating #1 ranked Ricky Seward, Big Bear City Fire Dept. in the Title Eliminator in October of last year. This fight is a great style match up. Boxer vs. Puncher. If Davis and Wurdinger step into the ring Saturday night with their hearts tattooed to their chest and truly want to be hoisted into Public Safety Boxing Greatness, we are all in for a legendary night.

Let the countdown begin…

When you talk about threats to James Davis Title one name shines brighter than the others, Matt Wurdinger, Santa Clara PD. He is riding a 7 fight win streak into the biggest fight of his career. Wurdinger won the 2011 Police Olympic Gold medal and followed it up with a win over #1 ranked Ricky Seward, Big Bear City FD. His fight with Davis could be perfect as far as timing. Wurdinger looks to add a highly recognized name to his list of victories and prove he is not only deserving of a title shot but he will win the title. Wurdinger will definitely be Davis toughest test. You can count on Wurdinger coming forward and putting the pressure on the Champion.  He is a volume puncher and will go toe to toe with anyone who stands in front of him. Wurdinger is determined to take Davis UCA Light Heavyweight Title and Team Wurdinger believes they have a game plan for dethroning the Champ.

Let the countdown begin…

Davis is the best light Heavyweight in California and he plans on staying that way when he wakes up Sunday morning after the fight with the UCA belt still in his possession. Davis is a crafty fighter who has figured out the game in a short period of time. With three years of boxing under his belt Davis may have the best defense and footwork in the game. He uses his footwork to slide in and out of range as an offense and a defense for himself. Davis has good head movement and avoids big shots by rolling with the punches to limit the impact. He is very illusive and never stays in front of his opponent. He also has a very good jab that he uses to set up his combinations and  control the distance.  In order for Davis to retain his title he must set the pace and dictate where the fight goes. He must keep the fight in the middle of the ring and establish his jab early to neutralize Wurdinger’s offensive attack. Davis will need to keep Wurdinger off balance by varying his offense, using feints, and setting traps throughout the fight. When Wurdinger tries to close the distance Davis must catch him with something hard to make him hesitant about coming in again. Davis is a very good boxer and must use it to his advantage to remain the champion.

A very intriguing matchup between two undefeated female boxers has been flying under the radar.  On April 20, 2013 #1 ranked Julie “J Cat” Williams, (4-0) CDCR San Quentin will step into the ring against the #1 ranked Super Middleweight Stephanie Sparks, (3-0) LASD. Williams won over the fans March 31, 2012 with her skill, heart and determination winning the UCA NorCal Title. Williams fought 5^th ranked Stacey Woienski, CDCR DVI in a very exciting competitive fight. The fight was too close for Williams; expect a dominating performance from her on Saturday night. The undefeated Sparks has had trouble finding opponents and is excited about the opportunity to fight Williams. Sparks is preparing with the LASD boxing team who are some of the best fighters in the state. Names like Frazier, Harrison, Manning and Hernandez are helping Sparks to be 100% prepared.

Q & A with the #1 ranked, 3X Police Olympic Gold Medalist, Jorge “The Baby Face Assassin” Caamal, Los Angeles Sheriff Department

On April 20, 2013  Jorge Caamal, will challenge the #1 ranked undefeated Brent Bugarin, Santa Clara Sheriff Dept. for the UCA Welterweight State Championship title.  The UCA caught up with  “The Baby Face Assassin”  to discuss his upcoming Welterweight State Title fight as well as his plans for the future.

1. You started training camp at 185lbs. Do you feel that big of a weight cut will have an effect on you during the fight?

I don’t think it’ll effect me too much. I’m doing a pretty good job dropping weight yet still eating well. As long as I don’t get to a point where I have to starve myself, I think I’ll be fine. Judging by my progression in weight loss and the amount of time I have left, I’m confident it will all go well.

2. Has your training and preparation for this fight been any different from previous fights?

The only thing different would be that I’m doing a lot more distance running than usual due to me training for the Baker to Vegas Relay Race at the same time as this fight.

3. Did you watch and study Bugarin’s fight?

Yes, I’ve seen the fight, but I haven’t really studied it.

4. Have you picked up anything from watching it that will help you? Can you tell us?

Considering he’s only fought 3 fights, I would assume some of his style and moves will change as he progresses as a fighter so I don’t expect him to fight the same. However, I’m not taking him lightly, I am preparing for this fight as I would for a more experienced fighter.

5. Do you feel the mental aspect is as important as the physical aspect in preparing for a fight?

 I feel the mental aspect is more important than the physical aspect. A fighters mental state has a huge effect on how he performs. Being in great shape  will help you last through the fight, but confidence, frustration, fear, anger, etc. can be the difference on how you fight.

6. How do you prepare mentally?

I prepare mentally the entire time I’m training for the fight. This way by fight night, I’m calm and ready to fight. I have set a goal to win the UCA title in 3 different weight classes. This is my first step in accomplishing that goal and the only thing in my way is Brent Bugarin. That is all I need to stay focused and mentally prepared.

7. Is there anything that worries you about Bugarin?

 Worries Me? No, I’m not worried at all. I know he is athletic and will be prepared, but I am confident I can beat him.

8. Aside from your experience advantage do you feel you have any other advantage?

My experience I feel is a huge advantage. However, I feel I will have the physical advantage as well. It’s been awhile since I’ve competed at 147, but when I did, I was just as strong as I was in any other weight class. Plus I’m a lot faster at 147. I’m really excited to be fighting at this weight again.

9. Do you feel added pressure to do well for your department, friends and family?

Maybe a little. People are expecting me to bring the title back with me so I don’t want to let them down.

10. With all of your fights do you still get a little nervous in the locker room waiting to come out?

Over the years, the butterfly feeling went away. I’m usually pretty calm. I do like to listen to music though to get me pumped up for the fight.

11. What will you be thinking about as you walk to the ring?

The belt being wrapped around my waist after it’s all over.

12. Can you give us a prediction?

I think I’ll win by decision. However, all of my KO wins were at 147 so I think there is a possibility.

Good luck and congratulations

Two potential UCA state champions sit at the top of their divisions. Brent Bugarin, Santa Clara Sheriff Dept. sits at the top of the welterweight division and his opponent Jorge Caamal, Los Angeles Sheriff Dept. sits at the top of the Jr Middleweight division. Bugarin will face his toughest opponent in Caamal for the vacant UCA Welterweight State title April 20, 2013. Bugarin and Caamal have displayed similar fighting styles. Caamal’s advantage is his experience and facing the higher level of opposition. He can also box on the outside and has good footwork. Bugarin’s strengths; he is fearless and he wants to finish fighters. He wears opponents down with constant pressure and a vicious body attack. With the height, weight, strength and athleticism, being even, the corner-men are going to play a big role in this fight.

If you had to pick two of the baddest dudes to be by your side when things got rough you would have to pick Wurdinger and Davis. These guys can fight and when they step into the ring Saturday April 20, 2013 it is going to be a war. It is definitely a front runner for fight of the year. They will be tested like never before and that is when the true champion will appear. The output in this fight is going to increase with each round getting more and more violent. There is no way to get around it; Davis and Wurdinger are going to endure punishment. To be prepared for a fight like this neither fighter can miss a day of training leading up to the fight. Conditioning is vital and being in great condition will allow Davis and Wurdinger to absorb the hard blows and quickly recover. Neither fighter can show any hesitation in the fight. There may be only one opportunity to land a damaging blow that can affect the outcome. Both fighters have to remain focused the whole fight.

Name: Coach Sarge
Gym: Dreamland Boxing, San Jose
http://www.dreamlandboxing.org/index.html

On April 20, 2013, #1 ranked Matt Wurdinger, Santa Clara PD will challenge James Davis, CDCR Folsom Prison for his UCA Light Heavyweight Title.

1. When did you start training Matt Wurdinger?

OVER 2 ½ YEARS AGO.

2. What was your first impression of Matt?

A) AS A BOXER: HIS BASIC FUNDAMENTAL BOXING SKILLS WERE IN PLACE, YET THE NEED WAS TO INTRODUCE NEW TECHNIQUES AND HONE SKILLS.

B) AS A PERSON: RESPECTABLE, EXCELLENT ROLE MODEL FOR THE
YOUTH, POSSESSES EXEMPLARY SOCIAL SKILLS, GREAT HUSBAND,
FATHER, FRIEND, AND ASSOCIATE.

3. When did you realize Matt was a special athlete?

THE FIRST TIME HE STARTED IN THE GYM. HE LISTENS, TAKES AND
APPLIES DIRECTION WELL. HIS ABILITY TO FOCUS IS EXCEPTIONAL. HE
HAS THE HEART OF A CHAMPION.

4. Describe Matt’s work ethic in the gym.

EXCELLENT.

5. How do you think Matt would do as a professional fighter?

HE WOULD MAKE THE TRANSITION WELL. AS BOTH AN AMATEUR
AND PRO TRAINER, I UNDERSTAND IT IS A BIG TRANSITION
FROM AMATEUR TO PRO AND THERE WOULD BE MUCH MORE
CONSISTENT TIME REQUIRED IN THE GYM, WITH MORE PRESSURE IN
TRAINING. IF HE WOULD BE ABLE TO PUT THE TIME IN, HE WOULD
DEFINITELY BE A WORLD TITLE HOLDER.

6. Have you had a chance to watch any video of Davis?

YES.

7. Were you able to pick things out of the video that will help Matt in the fight?

YES.

8. As a trainer, is watching video of your boxer’s opponent important to you?

YES.

9. Do you have Matt working on different things specifically for Davis? Can you tell us what they are?      

A) YES.   

B) I RESPECTFULLY DECLINE TO DISCLOSE STRATEGY AT THIS TIME. I BELIEVE THAT IF YOU HAVE WINNING TACTICS THAT YOUR OPPONENT IS NOT AWARE OF – THAT’S A PLUS. IT IS BEST NOT TO DIVULGE INFORMATION THAT WILL HELP YOUR OPPONENT TO PREPARE HIMSELF AGAINST YOUR BOXER.

10. What are your thoughts on this fight from a stylistic perspective? Will Matt have to change his style to beat Davis?

A) STYLES MAKE FIGHTS.

B) IT DOESN’T MATTER WHAT DAVIS BRINGS TO THE TABLE, MATT’S VERY WELL TRAINED/SCHOOLED TO ADAPT TO ANY STYLE, THAT IS WHY WE DON’T ALWAYS DEPEND ON VIDEO. I TRAIN MY BOXERS TO BE
ADAPTABLE, NO MATTER WHAT.

11. Is there anything that worries you about Davis? Speed, power, experience, etc.

NO.

12. What is the last thing you will tell Matt before he leaves the corner to fight Davis?

I REALLY CONSIDER THE CONVERSATIONS IN THE CORNER TO BE
PRIVILEGED BETWEEN TRAINER AND BOXER, TO HELP HIM WIN THE
FIGHT.

13. What is your prediction?

I BELIEVE MATT CAN STOP HIS OPPONENT OR WIN BY DECISION (if judges and referees remain impartial).

14. Anything you would like to add?

IN MY MANY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, AT TIMES, JUDGES AND
REFEREES HAVE PRE-CONCEIVED OUTCOMES (partiality – whether
geographic, personal, political, etc.) PRIOR TO THE BOUTS EVEN
TAKING PLACE. THUS THE INCORRECT BOXERS ARE GIVEN THE
DECISIONS…AND/OR, REFEREES GET TOO INVOLVED IN INTERRUPTING
THE CONTEST, OR, NOT INVOLVED ENOUGH WHEN FOULS OCCUR. IF
FAIRNESS AND HONESTY ARE PARAMOUNT WITHIN THE EVENT, AND
THIS IS THE ULTIMATE GOAL OF ALL CONCERNED, IT WILL BE A GREAT EVENT.

RESPECTFULLY, SGT. DAVID NEELEMAN, USMC

The UCA had the honor and privilege to interview the UCA 2012 Trainer of the Year Greg Huerta. Mr. Huerta is the trainer of the UCA Light Heavyweight Champion James Davis, CDCR Folsom Prison and Head Coach at Smashtime Boxing Gym in Sacramento. Coach Huerta is a retired Parole Agent with the California Dept of Corrections and Rehabilitation. On April 20, 2013, Davis, will defend his title against Matt Wurdinger, Santa Clara PD.

1. When did you realize Davis was a special athlete? In our first meeting with James we noticed he had an enormous belief in himself.  This is something that is not taught.  When a trainer gets a fighter with this innate belief it makes training much easier.

2. Describe Davis’s work ethic in the gym?  James is a very hard worker.  He does not have to be told to put in more effort in the gym.

3. Davis has not fought since he won the title in March of last year. Do you feel the long layoff will affect his performance?   James will perform to the best of his ability regardless of the nature of the match and/or length of his layoff.

4. Have you had a chance to watch any video of Wurdinger? No. I have yet to see Mr. Wurdinger.  I’ve been told he is a pressure fighter and comes to fight.

5. As a trainer, is watching video of your boxer’s opponent important to you?  Yes! I find it useful but getting a boxer both physically and mentally ready takes priority.

6. Do you have Davis working on different things specifically for Wurdinger? No. James is just preparing for a hard pressure fight.

7. What are your thoughts on this fight from a stylistic perspective? Will Davis have to change his style to beat Wurdinger? No.  James has the ability to use hand and foot speed.  Once he gets in the match he will make any necessary adjustments to dictate the match.

8. Is there anything that worries you about Wurdinger?  Speed, Strength, Style, etc. No. We are not concerned with his opponent. If you are worried you may as well not coach and/or fight.

9. Davis said, “This may be my last fight.” Does it concern you that Davis is thinking about retiring before the biggest fight of his career? James is bright and knows his limits.  I trust his judgment.

10. Is there added pressure for you as a trainer that Davis win and go out on top? No.  Fighters prepare for fights and put 100 percent effort into winning.  I ask nothing else of my fighter.

11. What is the last thing you will tell Davis before he leaves the corner to fight Wurdinger? Do what you do.

12. What is your prediction? James will perform to the best of his ability.

The UCA Light Heavyweight ShowDown between the Champion James Davis, Folsom Prison and Matt Wurdinger, Santa Clara PD is a rare matchup; you just don’t see public safety fights like this. Two top level fighters so evenly matched in the prime of their careers. Davis will be coming out looking to make a statement that he is the best Light Heavyweight in California. Wurdinger will look to prove he is the better fighter and become the new UCA Light Heavyweight Champion. Wurdinger does his best work on the inside. Davis has to make sure he doesn’t get drawn into a slugfest with Wurdinger. Davis is a smooth boxer and needs to use it to his advantage. If Davis can’t find a way to create the space he needs Wurdinger will keep him pinned against the ropes all night and walk away with the belt. Both fighters have a solid record and are coming off big wins. Neither fighter can make a mistake. They have to fight an almost perfect fight. This is a very even fight and both fighters will need to play to their strengths and utilize all their tools in order to win. Davis and Wurdinger have studied each other and know what they have to do to win. This is one of the most highly anticipated fights of the year and what a fight this is going to be between two highly skilled outstanding athletes.

Ryan Hotchkiss, Barstow Police Department became an instant prospect and “fighter to keep an eye on” when he exploded onto the Public Safety boxing scene in March, 2012 with a dominating win over a very tough opponent in Jason Kuhns, CDCR. Hotchkiss followed that up with a win over Chayin Osgood, CDCR and Manny Rocha, ICE. Hotchkiss is now 3-0 and sits at #4 in the Heavyweight division. Hotchkiss will face his toughest test April 20, when he steps into the ring with Sonny “Sunshine” Gerber, Grover Beach PD. Regardless of his opponent’s experience or talent level Hotchkiss will be ready to fight.

When did you start your career in Public Safety? I started my career with the Laguna Beach Police Department in 2009. I was there for one year and left for Barstow PD in search of more experience. Been at Barstow Police Department for over 2 years now and I am transferring to San Mateo Police Department in 2 weeks.

What got you started in boxing? I used to go to boxing matches with my grandfathers growing up. They both loved boxing and my grandfather, Bud, used to box and he was also a referee for years.

What made you want to participate in the Battle of the Badges? I heard about someone I knew participating in the Battle of the Badges and I looked into it. I miss the competition of college football, since I graduated in 2007. I’m really drawn to charity boxing because I love the competition and the fact that it’s for charity. I volunteered a lot back in college with the Child Crisis Center.

How long have you been training in boxing? I haven’t had any real training in regards to boxing. My grandfathers showed me what they knew. I’ve taken three lessons since I started boxing last year.

What gym do you train at? I don’t train at any boxing gyms, no sparing partners. I’ve only sparred once, I just workout quite a bit.

Thank you for the interview and good luck April 20.