I'm a Haymaker for Hope

As many of you know, I appreciate a solid challenge. Whether it be planting churches, starting nonprofits, fighting AIDS in Africa, or advocating for a more just and caring world - I like a good challenge when it’s for a good cause. 

I am reaching out today to ask for your support as I take up the fight against another menace - cancer. 

I will be fighting in Haymakers for Hope’s 6th annual Beltway Brawl at The Anthem Theater in Washington, DC on September 25th, 2025.

Haymakers for Hope is a charitable organization that hosts amateur charity boxing events in an effort to knockout cancer. Since inception, Haymakers for Hope has sponsored 40 amateur charity-boxing events in Boston, New York City, Denver, Philly, Miami, and DC, and raised more than $34 million for cancer research, care, awareness, and survivorship.

I’m fortunate to have been selected as one of 30 first-time boxers who will be matched with an opponent of similar abilities. 

Over the next few months, I will be on an intense training and fundraising journey which will prepare me to step in the ring in front of 1,500 people and literally fight to KO cancer!

This fight is quite personal for me. I lost my dad, Wayne Watson, 13 years ago to complications related to his fight with liver cancer. And 10 years ago, my nephew Jaxon won his fight against cancer, but it cost him his eye. I am fighting in their memory and in their honor. 

I have committed to raising at least $10,000 for Haymakers for Hope, and with your help, I know we can not only meet, but exceed this ambitious goal. 

But, I need you in my corner!

There are a number of ways you can support me as I prepare to fight and achieve my fundraising goal:

  • Donate to Matthew Watson -  You can donate using my personal fundraising page. 100% of these donations goes directly to organizations fighting cancer. 

  • Company Matching - Use this link attached to look up your company’s matching gift program and double your donation!. 

  • Get Tickets – Come see me box under the bright lights on September 25th.  Individual tickets are scheduled to go on sale starting July 22nd via Ticketmaster.  Follow Haymakers on Instagram as well as follow me on Insta @watsonopolis for more updates!

  • Sponsor – Your business can be an event sponsor with packages starting at $2500 and include exclusive ticket packages, recognition and other benefits.  Perfect for team building, client events, or even for friends and family looking to elevate their experience and support!

I plan to keep you all updated on my progress through my fundraising page, social media, and email.

 Thank you in advance for your consideration. I have no doubt that with the support of generous donors like you, we will deliver cancer that knockout punch and end this terrible disease. 

Matthew Watson