When Kamloops boxer Ken Huber successfully defended his British Columbia Amateur Cruiserweight title against Jason Stewardson in a fight in Revelstoke on April 6, his proud grandma, Marg Hubert, of Bradley Creek figured the South Cariboo had the right to share in his glory.
Following the release of news stories in the media that made no hometown connection, Marg was quick to point out her grandson was born and raised in 100 Mile House.
Ken lived in the South Cariboo until he was 18 years old, but started his boxing career in Kamloops when he turned 24. He trains at Kamloops Boxing Academy, which he owns and manages with his dad, Paul Huber, and he devotes his life to making himself the best boxer her can be.
Ken, now 29, had just claimed the cruiserweight title at the WBC Amateur Boxing Association Western Canadian Championships in Langley on March 29, when he went toe-to-toe with Stewardson in Revelstoke.
It was the first time he had been challenged for the title.
“I was expecting a war – a good, hard-fought fight, and it certainly was. I knew he was a really strong competitor and he didn’t disappoint. He was in shape and ready to go.”
Ken won a unanimous decision after going five rounds with Stewardson.
The win ensured him a berth at the WBC Canadian Championships in Langley on July 19, and he notes training for the competition will be his focus in the coming months.
He fought at the Canadian National competition in 2012 as a member of the B.C. team, but failed to meet his own expectations. This year, Ken says, he is looking for redemption.
“I’ve grown as a fighter and as a person substantially since then.”
He says the only way to meet that goal is through dedication and hard work, and he’s on track.
“I don’t party and I don’t skip practice. To be successful, you have to dedicate your life to this.
“It’s important. It’s something I love to do.”
