Boxing: 15 years after infamous dog attack, Frankie Flora headlines local boxing card

Frankie Flora was described by his coach as an "all-around boxer," one whose natural athleticism is complemented by skills he has worked hard to develop and strategies he is beginning to adopt.

But what is most impressive, Kariym Patterson said, is the resilience and an unwavering confidence.

"He's tough, mentally and physically," said Patterson, who runs APJ Boxing in Poughkeepsie. "He's quick on his feet, but he's also really tough. If an opponent is overly aggressive and tries to rough him up, Frankie can brawl and he isn't intimidated."

Really, toughness and resolve have been Flora's signatures since he was a small child. The Poughkeepsie native garnered headlines in 2009 when, as a 5-year-old, he was mauled by a Pitbull and suffered injuries that required more than 40 surgical procedures on his head and upper body. He faced each of those challenges with aplomb and a positive outlook.

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Flora now carries that attitude into the ring, where he is seeking to make a name for himself as an amateur boxer. The 20-year-old will be among a slew of locals competing next month in the True Boxers Championship 2 showcase at Poughkeepsie High School.

The Aug. 17 tournament will feature about a dozen bouts, featuring athletes from throughout the region, with championship belts awarded to the victors in each of the weight classes. The event debuted two years ago and this will be its second installment, said Patterson, who is organizing and promoting it.

Tickets can be purchased and additional information can be found at www.APJBoxing.com . As well, Patterson said, his gym is currently fundraising and accepting donations to help cover tickets and meals for 100 Poughkeepsie middle and high school students who will attend the tournament for free.

This event drew more than 700 spectators in 2022 and, Patterson said, the hope is that its sequel can bring in "at least 800." Poughkeepsie High School also hosted the USA Boxing Metro Tournament last October, its gymnasium accommodating a regulation-size boxing ring and a large audience.

Among the notable locals fighting is Nivon Stufano at 139 pounds, who competed last year in the USA Boxing Metropolitan semifinals. There also is Mike Marchesona of Wappingers Falls, and Emani Stackhouse, a rising junior at Poughkeepsie High School who has fully immersed herself in the sport.

And, of course, there is Flora, who is competing at 147 pounds. He has trained at APJ for three years and, despite a lack of experience in the ring, Patterson believes there is considerable potential.

"He's one of the best fighters in our gym," the coach said. "He works hard, he's disciplined, and he's earned our respect. We know that whoever he's facing and however the fight is going, he isn't afraid and won't back down."

Stephen Haynes: shaynes@poughkeepsiejournal.com; 845-437-4826; Twitter: @StephenHaynes4

This article originally appeared on Poughkeepsie Journal: Boxing: 15 years after infamous dog attack, Frankie Flora headlines local boxing card