Stuttgart laces up for European Boxing Championship

Story and Photos by Marcus Fichtl USAG Stuttgart Public Affairs

Fists will be flying and the ring will be rocking during the IMCOM-Europe Boxing Championships on Panzer Kaserne, Oct. 16.

As many as twenty bouts are expected in multiple weight classes, as men and women from across Germany and beyond will descend on the Panzer Gym to be crowned Europe’s top boxer. It’s the second Army boxing tournament post-covid in Germany, will be hosted a stones throw from the Garrison’s Swabian-American Biergarten.

Boxers spar in the Patch Gym as they prepare for the European Boxing Championship.

“This tournament is about bringing all of the [overseas] service members together, and showcasing their skills,” said Cory Hoffman, event organizer and ringside referee.

An official USA boxing sanctioned event, Hoffman said the tournament will have all the trimmings of “a very legitimate boxing production.”

He said there will be massive monitors – inside and outside the gym, a TV production crew – potentially with instant replay capabilities, lighting engineers, a live MC, and post match interviews. Food and beverages will be able to be purchased in the gym’s parking lot.

Army Capt. Michael Stanphill, one of Stuttgart Boxing’s newest members will be lacing up for his first fight during the IMCOM-Europe Boxing Championship.

“It’s been my dream since middle school to become a boxer, and when I saw the flyer I knew I needed to take my shot” he said.

Stanphill said he and his team have been living the dream in the Patch Gym the past three months and they’re ready to bring home the gold for USAG Stuttgart.

“This will be a great event for fans of boxing and our Stuttgart team,” he said. “Hopefully we bring home the championship again.”

Gates will open at the Panzer Gym at 2 p.m. For information on how you can register to fight, please contact Cory Hoffman at cory.l.hoffman2.naf@mail.mil or call: +49 (0) 711 680 2886.