WILLIAMS, CA (MPG) – A large crowd gathered in Williams last Saturday evening for a boxing exhibition in celebration of Williams Boxing Club’s first anniversary.
Founded on May 13, 2025, by Jose Rivera, the club now boasts 30 youth boxers, many of whom showed off their talents at the outdoor event.
For Rivera, the event represented the impact that boxing has had on his life and also a desire to keep alive the boxing tradition in Colusa County.
“I used to be a boxer at Merced Corona’s La Corona Boxing Club in Arbuckle, where I also coached,” said Rivera. “When I heard, Merced was going to close his gym, I couldn’t just stand by and do nothing since it was the only boxing club in Colusa County. So, I took it upon myself to construct a boxing gym out of a building we used for storage.”
Employing the work ethic, he learned from his father, Jose, and help from his family and friends, Rivera was able to accomplish his goal, drawing praise from Corona, who was on hand to emcee the bouts.
“It’s good that he can do something like this that’s positive and keeps kids involved. He really cares about the kids, so the future of boxing in Colusa County is in good hands.”
In addition to the current group of young fighters, the Williams Club also offers boxing classes for women only, taught by Courtney Navarro who also serves as a coach.
Still, as the main event got underway with boxers ages seven and up sparring in preparation for future competitive bouts, it was clear that the training and experience in the ring fostered not only their courage and confidence but camaraderie and sportsmanship among those who participate in the sport referred to as the “sweet science.”
Those looking for more information about joining or providing sponsorship can call (530) 933-9826 or send an email to WilliamsBoxingClub@gmail.com. during the Williams Boxing Club’s first anniversary celebration.