Walking into the Gunnedah Town Hall for Black n Blue Boxing’s fight night, Bad Intentions 10, I wasn’t sure what to expect – but from the first bell, it was clear the fighters were holding nothing back.
Fifteen fights were on the card that night – 11 amateur and four professional – and the homegrown fighters from Gunnedah’s Black n Blue Boxing didn’t just compete – they dominated.
Six fights, six wins.
Jonty Raeen set the tone with a first-bout TKO, followed by impressive performances from Emylie Murrell, Michael Borradaile, Matthew Williams and Shawn Hanslow. The night’s finale saw recently retired local legend Wade Ryan return to the ring, greeted with cheers that could probably be heard in the next town.
What stood out wasn’t just the wins – it was the sportsmanship.
Boxing here isn’t about aggression; it’s about precision, timing and respect for your opponent. Every jab and combination reflected hours of training and focus, with nods before each round and handshakes after the final bell.
Those skills and values are forged under the watchful eye of David “Spike” Syphers, who has run Black n Blue Boxing for more than two decades. He is joined by coaches and professional boxers Enja Ryan, Wade Ryan and Albert Nolan, whose technical expertise pushes fighters to improve while providing guidance that extends beyond the ring.
“Enja, Wade and Albert are a big part of why this gym has such an impact in Gunnedah,” Spike said.
“They’re role models, not just in the ring, but in life. The kids look up to them and honestly, so do the rest of us.”
Black n Blue Boxing is more than just a training space; it’s where fighters of all ages – from under-12s to adults – come to learn, grow and test themselves and the results speak for themselves. Black n Blue produces fighters who impress not only for their technique but also for the respect they show the sport and each other.
Even more impressive, all classes are free with the gym relying on the generosity of the Gunnedah community. Wade and Albert’s employer, Whitehaven Coal, is a big backer of the gym, while also supporting them both throughout their boxing careers. Winangali Aboriginal Child and Family Centre, Club Gunnedah and dozens of other local businesses and individuals contribute as well.
Thanks to this support, Black n Blue continues to churn out talented fighters, with each fight night showcasing the latest group making their mark in the ring.
