Mentioning boxing in a conversation on campus will likely bring to most people’s minds images of black eyes, smoke-filled boxing rings and people’s ears getting bitten off.

Most people, that is. One BYU-Idaho student, Sam Cisneros, a junior from Fillmore, Calif., feels that image needs a facelift. On April 15 at 7 p.m., college and high school students, along with amateur boxers, will step into the ring in the Madison Junior High gymnasium. The event, organized by Cisneros, is aimed at not only showcasing local and amateur talent, but the sport and its participants.

Cisneros said the lessons of hard work, using your brain and being quick on your feet that he learned from boxing during high school helped him when he served in the Colorado Denver South Mission. He hopes the contestants involved will learn similar lessons that can help them in and out of the ring.

The event, sponsored by the U.S.A. Boxing Commission, will be the real thing, according to Cisneros. Certified referees and professional judges will officiate the matches. Broulim’s will also be providing concessions.

Cisneros said that in the end he’s not expecting to make any money off the event. His main objectives are to show the public what the sport is really all about and to provide the young men involved with a growing experience.

Although the competition is full, tickets to attend the event are $5 at Broulim’s and Ramires’ Restaurant, or $7 at the door.