LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A longtime Lima boxer is giving back to the community through the sport that shaped his life.
Coach Aaron McLaurine, a Lima Senior High School graduate and former professional boxer, hosted “The Fight Before Christmas” on Thursday night at his New Look Fitness Gym.
McLaurine, known in the ring as “Showtime,” has more than 35 years of boxing experience. He fought for three world titles and was once ranked among the top boxers in Ohio and the world. Since retiring, he has focused on mentoring young people through his Soldiers of Honor Boxing program.
During the event, youth boxers demonstrated the skills they’ve learned over the past 12 weeks of training for their families. Families also received donated items, including toys, coats, food and boxing equipment.
McLaurine said he hopes the night helped ease some holiday stress and brought positivity to the community.
“I want them to come out of this energized — a little bit more hope, a little bit more love,” McLaurine said. “I want them to go spread it … to their family and to the community.”
New Look Fitness offers boxing programs for adults and youth. More information is available at https://www.newlookfitnesslima.com/boxing/soldiers/.
