Christy Martin boxing benefit fights domestic violence

Trailblazing boxer Christy Martin has been in a different kind of fight since her retirement from the ring in 2012. The International Boxing Hall of Fame honoree is today a crusader against domestic violence.

Martin’s latest fundraiser in support of domestic-violence survivors is Thursday, Feb. 19. “Champions Against Domestic Violence” will take place at 6 p.m. at the Hilton hotel at 350 Northlake Blvd. in Altamonte Springs. The black-tie affair will feature live boxing matches.

“Champions Against Domestic Violence” is presented by Christy’s Champs, the nonprofit Martin established to help support, educate and empower those who have suffered domestic abuse. It provides resources to help survivors escape violent situations.

The cause is personal to Martin, who was nearly killed by her husband in 2010. After he shot and stabbed her, Martin was able to escape their Apopka home and flag down a passing motorist who took her to the hospital. Her husband — who had been her manager as Martin became a pioneering superstar in women’s boxing — was convicted for the attack and died in prison in 2024.

Martin’s story was told in the movie “Christy,” released in 2025. At the time, she told the Orlando Sentinel she hoped the film would inspire women trapped in abusive situations to seek help.

Central Florida’s Christy Martin survived terrifying abuse. She hopes filming her story helps others

“I think it’s really going to make a difference,” Martin said of the film’s message of resilience. “I really, really do.”

The Feb. 19 boxing event will feature seven fights with up-and-coming boxers, including Tony Aguilar and Joshua Draughter. The evening will also include 50-50 raffles and a silent auction.

Different levels of sponsorship are available, single tickets are $75.

Martin, who still lives in Apopka, has championed new boxers since her retirement. As part of that, organizers of “Champions Against Domestic Violence” are suggesting if people want to donate to the cause but cannot attend, they can buy a ticket that will be given to a young boxer who otherwise couldn’t afford the event.

For more information, go to christymartin-promotions.com or call 407-720-6008.

Follow me at facebook.com/matthew.j.palm or email me at mpalm@orlandosentinel.com. Find more entertainment news and reviews at orlandosentinel.com/entertainment or sign up to receive our weekly emailed Entertainment newsletter.

https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2026/02/14/christy-martin-boxing-benefit-altamonte-springs/