Largest Ontario Novice Tournament Returns This Weekend: Inspiring Future Champions

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Toronto, ON — Boxing Ontario is proud to sanction the third annual Novice Tournament on August 21-23, 2026 in London, ON.

Hosted by Boomerz Boxing and Jouda Promotions in partnership with Tourism London, this year’s Ontario Novice Tournament promises to be bigger and more exciting than ever, featuring four boxing rings for the first time. Approximately 600 athletes from across Ontario, Canada, and the US are expected to compete over three days and four sessions of Olympic-style boxing at the BMO Centre London.

“The growth of the Ontario Novice Tournament over the past three years has been incredible to watch,” says Brett Lucier, Coach at Boomerz Boxing and member of the Ontario Novice Tournament Organizing Committee. “We started with two rings in our first year in 2024, expanded to three rings in 2025, and now in 2026 we’re preparing to operate four rings to accommodate the continued growth of the event.”

The primary goal of the Ontario Novice Tournament is to further develop the impressive emerging boxing talent within Ontario and to elevate the sport of Olympic-style boxing across the province. Many participants aim to gain valuable experience and bouts ahead of the upcoming Provincial Championships in October.

“At its core, this tournament is about champions in the making,” echoes the Tournament Organizing Committee. “These are athletes gaining experience, building confidence and learning what it means to compete on a bigger stage. Some of the boxers stepping into these rings will become future provincial and national champions, and some may one day wear the maple leaf and represent Canada internationally.”

The 2026 Ontario Novice Tournament is also embracing cutting-edge technology with the introduction of live scoring courtesy of RingScore.

“This year we’re also excited to take another step forward with the addition of automatic live scoring, made possible with the support of Boxing Canada. It’s another important addition that helps us continue to improve the experience for athletes, coaches and spectators while bringing an even greater championship atmosphere to the tournament,” says Brett Lucier.

Olympic-style boxing emphasizes technical skill, strategic thinking, and athleticism. Competitors must master punching, footwork, tactics, and defense to score points, demanding discipline, speed, power, endurance, agility, and mental toughness. Those interested in learning more about the “Sweet Science” are encouraged to attend the event.

Tickets and weekend passes are available at the door, and live streaming can be accessed at watchfights.ca. For full event details and updates, including the schedule, visit Boxing Ontario’s website and Ontario Novice Tournament’s social media.

Session times are as follows:

Session 1: Friday, August 21, 6pm ET
Session 2: Saturday, August 22, 1pm ET
Session 3: Saturday, August 22, 6pm ET
Session 4: Sunday, August 23, 12pm ET

In addition to competition, there will be sparring opportunities for Funbox, female athletes, as well as an Elite/U23 Sparring Camp organized by Boxing Ontario’s High-Performance Committee during Novice Tournament weekend. Pre-registration is required via links on the tournament webpage.

For more information on the 2026 Novice Tournament, please visit boxingon.ca

—ENDS—

Lead Photo Credit: Mark Ruddick

About Boxing Ontario:
Boxing Ontario is the official governing body for Olympic-style boxing in Ontario. Affiliated with Boxing Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Sport, and World Boxing, our mission is to inspire participation, develop talent, and promote the sport across the province. Founded in 1972, we are dedicated to growing the love of boxing in Ontario. Learn more at boxingon.ca

About Boomerz Boxing:
Located in London, ON, Boomerz Boxing is a proud member of Boxing Ontario and a registered non-profit organization. Their mission is to develop champions both inside and outside the ring, continuing the legacy of Lawrence Boom—an esteemed coach who mentored many, especially those from underserved communities. Learn more at boomerzboxing.com

Media Contacts:
Boxing Ontario: Rebecca Freeman | Communications, PR | pr@boxingontario.com
Jouda Promotions: Abdul Jouda | Tournament Director | joudapromotions@gmail.com

Interview Opportunities:
Available upon request. Interview opportunities can be arranged with the Ontario Novice Tournament Committee, tournament athletes, and coaches.