Looks like grappling with crippling budget cuts and mixing it up with administration officials is no longer enough for New York Republican Peter T. King. The headstrong House member is poised to go toe-to-toe with a professional bruiser during “Battle of the Champions 8” at Mulcahy’s Pub in Wantagh, N.Y.
King, a boxing enthusiast, told HOH he elected to step into the ring Saturday for an exhibition against “Irish” Josh Foley, the current World Kickboxing Association New York State Super Middleweight Champion, as a favor to his personal trainer — and fight promoter — Chris Cardona.
The last time King traded blows in a non-legislative capacity was 1991, when he squared off against former heavyweight contender Seamus McDonagh in an exhibition bout commemorating the 20th anniversary of the first Joe Frazier-Muhammad Ali tussle.
King has no illusions about pummeling the younger, leaner Foley into submission, but he does expect to hold his ground.
“If he goes all out, the fight will be over quickly,” King predicted, adding that he hopes to slip in some good punches (“I have a pretty good jab,” he shared) while dodging as many crushing blows as possible.
King first caught the boxing bug from his father, who spent part of his career overseeing the physical fitness of New York Police Department officers. King said he officially adopted boxing as his workout of choice about a decade ago, stressing he still tries to hit the gym at least twice a week and punishes a heavy bag hanging in his basement as time permits.
King also touted Cardona’s training facility (Bellmore Kickboxing Academy) as a community hub and praised the host bar, Mulcahy’s, for always throwing open its doors for police and fire department fundraisers.
Those looking to support the cause can purchase general-admission tickets for $45 presale ($55 at the door), while ringside VIP seating is available for $65 ($75 day of).
Just don’t expect to see Mrs. King in the congressman’s corner.
“It’s her birthday. She’s refusing to go,” he said of the standoff he instigated at home.
