Street Boxing Matches Emerge in Bogota's Parks

Bogota's Street Boxing Scene Gains Momentum

In a park on the outskirts of Colombia's capital city, an impromptu boxing ring has been set up in recent months, drawing dozens of young men and women to engage in street-style fighting matches. The organizer, Santiago Abril, has been hosting these pop-up fights without official permits.

Abril's makeshift ring is constructed from interlocking rubber panels and resembles a mixed martial arts cage, providing an unconventional space for participants to test their boxing skills. While some fighters aim to hone their abilities, others are seeking a thrilling experience that sets them apart from traditional match protocols.

For those who take part, there's a basic fee: women pay around five dollars, while men fork out fifteen dollars. Participants receive boxing gloves but no headgear, adding an element of risk to the matches. A cash prize is awarded to fighters who win two or three consecutive bouts in hastily organized tournaments.

Ingrid Prieto, a 29-year-old who recently participated in one of these fights, views boxing as a form of therapy.

The organizers of these street fights claim that participants sign consent forms before competing, ensuring they are in good health and aware of the risks involved.

Many of the fighters, like Eliber Parra García, have a background in martial arts but lack experience in boxing itself. García, who repairs mobile phones for a living, joined the pop-up fights seeking adrenaline and an opportunity to earn some money.

The municipal government has strict regulations governing these events, requiring permits and emergency response plans before they can take place. However, organizers claim that obtaining these permits is challenging due to the sport's supposed "monopolization" by established promoters.

Police have intervened on several occasions, asking Abril to dismantle his octagon in various city parks after failing to produce a valid permit for the events.

The unorthodox street boxing matches in Bogota have gained significant popularity under King Abril's promotion, despite the lack of official permits.

Each fight consists of two rounds lasting 90 seconds each, with participants divided into weight categories and equipped with heavier gloves than those used by professionals, which slows down their punching pace. According to Abril, who holds a degree in physical education, this design prevents boxers from delivering powerful blows that can cause severe injuries.

The events have attracted a substantial online following, with King Abril's social media promotions drawing a large audience, and his YouTube account boasting over 131,000 subscribers.