In the world of boxing, “Showtime” Shawn Porter is a name that embodies tenacity, skill, and heart. Renowned for his relentless fighting style and charismatic personality, Porter has consistently proven that he’s more than just an athlete. Recently, he took his dedication to new heights by stepping into the ring—not for a championship title, but to raise awareness for a cause close to his heart: mental health. For the past three years, Porter has served as a Give an Hour Ambassador, championing this vital issue. Give an Hour is a national organization dedicated to creating resilient individuals and communities by improving mental health and emotional wellbeing.
On the morning of his induction into the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame, Porter dedicated his time to raising awareness for Give an Hour, but this wasn’t just any charity event—it was something deeply personal, intimate, and impactful. Fans had the unique opportunity to spar with the former world champion by donating to Give an Hour. Each donation entered them into a sweepstakes for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to step into the ring with Porter while supporting a crucial cause. Sweepstakes winner Jorge M shared, “To be able to go in there and share the ring with him was just nothing I could’ve imagined. It was incredible.”
The event was organized with a singular goal: to use the power of sport to shine a light on mental health, an issue that affects millions yet often remains in the shadows. By inviting fans to spar with him, Porter created an environment where physical exertion and emotional vulnerability could intersect in a powerful way. Boxing, with its intense focus, discipline, and physical demands, became a metaphor for the fight many people endure with their mental health.
For the fans, stepping into the ring with a former world champion was a dream come true. But beyond the excitement of trading jabs with a boxing legend, there was a deeper connection at play. Porter’s genuine, down-to-earth nature made each participant feel valued and heard, a crucial element in any conversation about mental health. He didn’t just show up—he engaged, he listened, and he made it clear that mental health is a fight worth fighting, both inside and outside the ring.
“One of the reasons I am such a fan of Shawn Porter, is his motivational messages, always speaking about mental health and is such a huge advocate for it. Shawn speaks about things people may not realize or may not want to open up about. He brings light to things that need a voice especially in such a male dominated sport. 
As a fan of the sport and the fact that Shawn took time to let someone he never met get in the ring with him, is just incredible. A once in a lifetime experience that I won’t ever forget. I’m forever grateful to Give an Hour and Showtime Shawn Porter!” Jorge M.
For Porter, this event went beyond raising awareness—it was about taking action. By literally stepping into the ring with his fans, he symbolized the daily battles many people face. His commitment to using his platform for such an important cause reflects his character and deep understanding of the responsibilities that come with being a public figure and a Give an Hour Ambassador.
As the event wrapped up, it was clear that the experience had left a lasting impact on everyone involved. For those who participated, it was a chance to connect with a hero in a truly meaningful way. For Porter, it was an opportunity to give back and further his mission of using boxing as a force for good.
“It was an experience I’ll never forget and hope to do it again in the future,” said Shontez D.
This event was more than just a unique experience—it served as a powerful reminder that mental health is a battle we must all fight together, with champions like Shawn Porter leading the way.
To learn how you can get involved with Give an Hour as an Ambassador email Nickie at nsilverstein@giveanhour.org and to become a Wellness Ambassador visit https://giveanhour.org/wellnessambassador/.
