Bouncer Ben Wrotniak is determined to hinder Barry Hall’s ambitious boxing aspirations.
Wrotniak will face the former AFL star as his first professional adversary in an eagerly awaited match in Melbourne this May, with more details regarding the venue and date to be announced shortly.
The 27-year-old heavyweight, known as “The Overcomer” for his victory over depression and personal struggles, credits God for providing him with this lifetime boxing opportunity.
“My father, a minister at the Kingswood Real Life Church, asked last Sunday if anyone in the congregation needed a miracle,” Wrotniak shared.
“I stood up and prayed for the chance to fulfill my potential as a boxer … then within a few days, I received the phone call that changed everything for me.”
Wrotniak hasn’t competed since March of last year, yet he maintains an impressive 4-0 professional record (including one knockout).
He is confident in his ability to defeat 35-year-old Hall, who many regard as one of Australia’s most promising boxing talents.
“I intend to seize this opportunity with both hands, and if necessary, my legs as well. This is the moment I have been anticipating my entire life. I’m eager and prepared to fight for my dream.”
“I must acknowledge Barry Hall’s accomplishments. He is an exceptional athlete with numerous accolades and awards from the AFL. However, I take my profession as a boxer very seriously. I am fully convinced that I will win.”
Wrotniak, the child of Polish immigrants, reflects that his challenging upbringing in Claremont Meadows, situated 50km west of Sydney, along with his personal trials have prepared him for this bout.
“I feel as though my life mirrors a Rocky movie. I am Rocky, and Barry is Apollo Creed. The distinction is that this will be akin to the first Rocky film but with the ending of Rocky II (where Rocky Balboa triumphs).”
He noted that the largest audience he had fought in front of before was in 2000 at the Blacktown RSL. His match against Hall could draw over 15,000 spectators.
“I’m not intimidated by that,” he remarked. “What stands out is that Barry Hall has yet to step into the ring as a professional, while I have.”
“My greatest asset is my unpredictability. When you enter the ring with Ben Wrotniak, you never know what to expect.”
by Buford Balony
