Street boxing matches in Bogotá face police scrutiny and permit demands as organizers stage impromptu bouts in public parks.
Santiago Abril organizes amateur boxing tournaments in Bogotá, charging participants between five and 15 dollars to enter.
Police officers on motorcycles interrupted an event in a Bogotá park, requiring Abril to dismantle his ring because he lacked permits for the public space.
Abril moved the ring to two more parks to complete the tournament on November 8, 2026, featuring more than 20 registered amateur fighters.
Men and Women Compete in Short Rounds with Heavy Gloves
The tournament opened with men competing in 60-kilogram and 70-kilogram weight classes, followed by women’s bouts.
Male competitors fought shirtless in two rounds lasting a minute and a half each.
Abril said that he shortens the rounds and uses heavy six-ounce gloves to reduce potential injuries among the fighters.
Organizers Face Difficulties Obtaining Permits for Street Boxing
Abril organizes the events through social media under the moniker “King Abril,” operating outside the professional boxing circuit.
“Empezamos en la calle, en el pavimento. Ya tenemos una jaula, tatami, guantes,” Abril said.
Abril said that obtaining permits for street boxing remains difficult due to what he described as a monopoly held by promoters.
The Bogotá Secretary of Government informed reporters that organizers must notify the city in advance to use public space and secure emergency management plans for high-risk activities.
Participants Fight for Cash Prizes and Adrenaline
Participants sign up for the fights without knowing their opponents, drawn by the prospect of cash prizes, recreation, or a path to professional boxing.
“Soy cinta anaranjada en judo, pero de boxeo muy poco,” said Eliber Parra García, a 27-year-old cellular repair technician.
Parra García entered the tournament seeking adrenaline, prize money based on event revenue, and experience to pursue a professional career.
Sufro de ira, porque tuve muchas experiencias de pequeña,” said Ingrid Prieto, a 29-year-old housewife who competed to learn contact sports and channel her emotions.
Worth a look
