Sport
14 February, 2026
Nate’s fighting fit
BOXING prodigy Nate Martinelli has started his 2026 campaign in a regional round robin format before he prepares for a huge year of competitions.
The 15-year-old recently competed in a competition hosted by Freedom Rising. The competition aimed to get all the fighters in the Far North to compete and get some more time in the ring.
Nate represented his gym (Evolve Boxing and Fitness) with his coach Aaron Wellman at Freedom Gym’s event.
The competition was a huge success seeing a variety of different competitors at a variety of ages and skill levels.
Competition manager Indie Kelly said “it was a strong success”.
“From a development and wellbeing perspective, the event achieved exactly what it was designed to do,” she said.
It was the first of many events for Nate this year and his first time having a proper bout since 2025.
Dad Armen said it was early in the campaign.
“Being this early in the season, the event on the weekend is to gain ring time to avoid ring rust before any sanctioned Boxing Queensland event we nominate in,” he said.
“After the weekend, Nate showed his ring craft has taken the next level, very impressive against a super aggressive opponent.”
Nate had two opponents on the day, one from Innisfail and the other from Ingham. He won both his matchups.
While winning, Nate said he needed to get better.
“There’s always room for improvement,” he said.
“Each year as we move weight class the talent pools are stacked.
“No easy path when the divisions are loaded.”
The organisers said development sparring initiatives like Freedom Rising played an important role in supporting youth wellbeing and grassroots boxing in regional areas.
“They create positive pathways for young people, encourage healthy lifestyles and strengthen connections between gyms, families and communities,” they said.
“As awareness grows, we expect continued participation and regional collaboration, helping to build stronger, healthier communities across Far North Queensland.”
Nate’s busy schedule includes:
Impact Boxing Club – 28 March (Noosa)
Youth state titles – 30 April-3 May (Neon Boxing)
Academy 30 May – The Link (YMCH)
Close Quarters – 17 October (Mackay)
Dig Deep 24 October – (Dysart).
