Yuma Boxing Event Showcases Local Talent

Bad Apple Boxing's 'Shamrock Showdown' to feature 26 bouts and raise funds for national travel

Mar. 13, 2026 at 6:19pm

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Yuma, Arizona is emerging as a hub for amateur boxing, thanks to programs like Bad Apple Boxing. This Saturday, March 14, 2026, the 'Shamrock Showdown Under the Lights' event at Ricky Gwynn Stadium will feature 26 bouts, providing a crucial platform for local fighters to compete in front of their community and build their records. The event is a fundraiser to support Bad Apple Boxers' National Travel Fund, helping athletes reach events like the Junior Olympics.

Why it matters

Normally, aspiring boxers in Yuma have to travel to larger cities to gain experience and exposure. Bad Apple Boxing is changing that by bringing a professional-level event to the local community, allowing young fighters to showcase their skills close to home. The event also raises vital funds to support the athletes' travel to national competitions, which can be a significant financial burden.

The details

The Shamrock Showdown will feature 17 local athletes, with seven representing Bad Apple Boxing. Among the rising stars is 11-year-old Liam Bialecki, already ranked in the top five nationally for his age group. Other fighters like Francisco Perez and Jose Enriquez are eager to display their talents. The event will also include a highly anticipated bout featuring Nick Mondejar.

  • The Shamrock Showdown will take place on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
  • Doors will open at 3 p.m., and the first fights will begin at 4 p.m.
  • Weigh-ins and doctor checks will be held earlier that day from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM.

The players

Tyler Bialecki

The founder of Bad Apple Boxing, a professional fighter who is changing the landscape of amateur boxing in Yuma.

Liam Bialecki

An 11-year-old boxer ranked in the top five nationally for his age group, representing Bad Apple Boxing.

Francisco Perez

A local fighter eager to showcase his skills at the Shamrock Showdown.

Jose Enriquez

Another local athlete competing at the Shamrock Showdown event.

Nick Mondejar

A boxer whose bout is anticipated to be a highlight of the evening, as he aspires to reach a larger stage.

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What they’re saying

“Normally you have to travel out to obtain that kind of stage, but we're bringing that here to Yuma.”

— Tyler Bialecki, Founder, Bad Apple Boxing (newsy-today.com)

“It's going to make you better for anything you desire to do later in life.”

— Honorato Medrano, 19-year-old boxer (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Bad Apple Boxing's Shamrock Showdown is providing a crucial platform for Yuma's young fighters to compete in front of their community and build their records, while also raising funds to support their travel to national competitions - a testament to the growing boxing scene in the region.