PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Father Dave Issues Boxing Challenge to Tony Abbott
Sydney, Australia — Father Dave Smith — Anglican priest, long‑time youth worker, social activist, and current New South Wales Over‑60s Professional Light‑Heavyweight Boxing Champion — has released a new video renewing his public boxing challenge to former Prime Minister, Tony Abbott.
In the 80‑second video, published today, Father Dave responds to Mr Abbott’s earlier refusal to enter the ring with him and addresses the former Prime Minister’s recent public praise of police actions at the Town Hall rally for Palestine — a rally in which Father Dave participated.
“I know you said ‘no’ to my last challenge because you didn’t want to look like a thug, beating up on an old priest,” Father Dave says in the video, “but I think that horse bolted when you applauded the police who attacked peaceful demonstrators. I was there. It wasn’t pretty.”
Father Dave, who has spent more than three decades using boxing as a tool for community building and youth outreach, says the challenge is not about hostility but about accountability, charity, and public dialogue. He’s also clearly not stressed about the former PM’s ability to cause him injury.
“I’m the current NSW professional light‑heavyweight champion for us over‑60s,” he says. “How much damage do you really think you can do to me?”
The video concludes with a renewed invitation:
“Tony, I’m ready to rumble. I know you can fight — so let’s see if you can take my title. We’ll raise money, for Palestine if you’re willing. It’ll be a war where everyone wins… except that you’re gonna lose.”
About Father Dave
Father Dave Smith is an Anglican priest, professional boxer, author, and long‑time advocate for troubled youth and people at risk. He has been nominated for Australian of the Year three times, is Australia’s oldest active professional boxer, and is the current NSW Over‑60s Professional Light‑Heavyweight Boxing Champion. His work has been recognised internationally for its impact on community cohesion, interfaith dialogue, and youth empowerment.
Media Contact
Father Dave Smith
Email: dave@fatherdave.org
Phone: 61-409-620-009
Website: www.fatherdave.info
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