Why are you doing this?
Finn: A couple of years ago I watched my cousin doing a Fight Night at the Clapham Grand, and when I spoke to him afterwards he said it was one of the best things he’d ever done. I asked Harry if he might want to do something like that and he was really keen, so that’s my motivation.
Harry: For me, I just wanted to do something a little bit different. While I enjoy watching boxing, I never thought I’d actually do it myself. So when Finn asked me, I thought it would be a great idea. And doing it at the Clapham Grand, well that’s straight in at the deep end, isn’t it!
Have either of you ever boxed or done any boxing training before?
Harry: No, I’ve never done anything like this at all.
Finn: I’m the same – I’ve literally never even put a pair of boxing gloves on. I haven’t started any actual boxing training yet, other than just doing some fitness and gym stuff. I reckon Harry’s been doing some secret sessions though!
Harry: Haha. No, seriously, I’m the same as Finn. A bit of gym here and there and then I’ll get going after we’ve had the first proper training session. I think the general idea is that we don’t need to start a whole new regime or anything, but I still feel like it's going to be a bit harder than I’m expecting.
How did you hear about The Lily Foundation?
Finn: When I asked Harry about wanting to do a Fight Night, I did a bit of research into ones nearby and that’s how I came across The Lily Foundation’s event. I told Harry about it and we both looked into it a bit more.
Harry: We’d never heard of the charity before but it looked like a really good cause and a cool charity to fundraise for.
Finn: Hopefully we’re going to sell quite a lot of tickets, so I’m sure most of our friends and family will be in the same position as us, knowing nothing about mitochondrial disease. It’ll be a good way to raise awareness. Harry’s got his work coming too.
Harry: Yeah, I’ve got my office coming. As soon as I told them about what I was doing, well, first of all they found it hilarious. Now they’ve organised for a team social on the same night, so they’re all going to come along. Hopefully they’ll be in for a good night. I’ve had a little look at some of the YouTube videos of previous Fight Nights because I was intrigued. It looks quite intense.
What would you say to somebody who was considering signing up to fight?
Harry: For me personally, I don’t know any of my friends who have been involved in boxing at all before so it’s just something completely different. I think it’s quite a fun challenge to do, and obviously it’s in front of a lot of people, so you put a bit of pressure on yourself to train and get fit. I think that all round it’s just a very positive thing to do.
Finn: Agreed. And getting out of your comfort zone a bit. Also, all of our mates are extremely excited to come and watch us fight each other!
How do you think you’ll feel on the night as you step out for your ring walk?
Harry: I’m looking forward to that bit, it should be really good fun.
Finn: I don’t know about Harry, but I definitely haven’t picked my song yet. I’ve been thinking about it a lot though. I feel like mine’s already changed about 10 times. I’m almost more nervous about that than the actual fight!
And finally, the obvious question – who’s going to win?
Harry: Who do you think, Finn?
Finn: I’ve actually never been in a fight before, so I can’t speak for my natural ability. But I do know that Harry’s lost every fight he’s ever been in, so I’m feeling confident that he’ll carry on that losing streak!
Harry: I don’t know what Finn’s talking about. I’m pretty confident I’m going to win this one.
Whoever wins, we wish them both all the best with their fundraising and their fight. Lily Fight Night takes place at the Clapham Grand on Thursday 8th May 2025. If, like Finn and Harry, you’d like to get in the ring and take on a new challenge, there’s still time to sign up. If you’d prefer to cheer from the sidelines, tickets will be on sale soon. Keep an eye on our socials for more information.