Boxing is Back in Beijing: Shuangjing Showdown Returns Saturday Night at Hotel Jen

After being knocked out by Covid, Shuangjing Showdown is back this Saturday night, with 18 amateur boxing and Muay Thai fights, according to Showdown co-founder and co-organizer James Oliver. 

Originally an outdoor event held in Shuangjing, the latest, more deluxe edition produced by Capital Promotions takes place at Hotel Jen starting at 5pm. 

Chinese and foreign fighters, both female and male, will compete in scheduled based on weight class, All are amateurs who train at local gyms, with boxing and Muay Thai fitness training having exploded in popularity in Beijing in recent years. 

"There's nothing like the atmosphere of live fights. The tension in the build-up, hearing the shots land, and just seeing the stories play out right in front of you. There is no seating at Showdown events, you're right there, getting caught up in it. If there is one reason we do these shows, it's that," Oliver said. 

One marquee fight will feature Miguel of Migas Mercado, fighting under the name "El Matador," in his public debut. "The main event fight has some very promising women's Muay Thai fighters. More women than ever are signing up to fight, which reflects how many women are training in gyms now," Oliver said. 

Amateur boxing matches at this level consist of three, three-minute rounds, so expect more punching and less dancing. Muay Thai matches last for five, 90-second rounds. 

Given its Hotel Jen location, it will be no surprise that Beersmith will be offering hot food and cold drinks at the event. Musical entertainment will be provided by Fantwan.

Shuangjing Showdown is happening tonight, Saturday, Apr 9 from 5-10pm at Hotel Jen. Tickets are available at the door for RMB 99.

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Images courtesy of the organizers