Bouncer Ben Wrotniak is determined to disrupt Barry Hall’s ambitious aspirations in boxing.
In May, Wrotniak will be the former AFL star’s inaugural professional challenger in a highly anticipated match in Melbourne, with additional information about the location and date forthcoming.
The 27-year-old heavyweight, who goes by “The Overcomer” after overcoming personal struggles and depression, expresses gratitude to God for what he describes as a once-in-a-lifetime boxing opportunity.
“My father serves as a minister (at the Kingswood Real Life Church), and last Sunday, he inquired if anyone in the congregation was in need of a miracle,” Wrotniak recounted.
“I stood up and prayed for the chance to fulfill my potential as a boxer… then just a couple of days later, I received the call that changed everything for me.”
Wrotniak, who last fought in March of the previous year, holds an undefeated 4-0 professional record (including one knockout).
He is confident in his ability to defeat 35-year-old Hall, whom many consider to be one of the most exciting boxing prospects in Australia.
“I am going to seize this chance with both hands, and if necessary, with my legs as well. This is the moment I’ve been waiting for my entire life. I’m eager and prepared to fight for my dream.
“I must pay my respects to Barry Hall. He’s a remarkable athlete who has achieved considerable success and earned many accolades in the AFL. However, I take my role as a professional boxer very seriously. I am completely convinced that I will defeat him.”
Born to Polish immigrants, Wrotniak believes his challenging upbringing in Claremont Meadows, located 50km west of Sydney, along with his personal struggles, have equipped him for this fight.
“I feel like I am living in a Rocky movie. I am Rocky, and Barry is Apollo Creed. The key difference is that it will resemble the original Rocky movie but with the conclusion of Rocky II (where Rocky Balboa triumphs).”
Wrotniak shared that the largest audience he has fought in front of was in 2000 at the Blacktown RSL. His match against Hall could potentially be witnessed by over 15,000 spectators.
“I’m not concerned about that,” he stated. “What matters to me is that Barry Hall has never entered the ring as a professional, while I have.
“My greatest asset is my unpredictability. You never know what to expect when you step into the ring with Ben Wrotniak.”
by Buford Balony
