Lester Ellis fought with the calm, composed discipline of an orthodox boxer, but his journey has been anything but conventional. Forty years after his iconic "Fight of the Century" against Barry Michael, Lester's legacy continues—not just through stories of his world title but through the next generation of Ellis boxers and trainers.

Today, Lester is proudly passing the torch to his sons, Darcy and Lester Jnr, who are co-founders of the successful Hitfit chain of boxing gyms in Victoria. Their mission? To use the sport of boxing as a tool for transformation.

“Hitfit exists to help people change their lives through the vehicle of boxing,” says Darcy Ellis. “We're not just about fighters or professionals—we’re about everyday people. Families, adults, and kids come to us to improve their fitness, mental health, and confidence.”

Darcy explains that one of the gym’s core goals is to make boxing more inclusive and break down stereotypes. “You don’t have to be tough, aggressive, or experienced to start. We focus on making our classes welcoming and accessible, regardless of age or fitness level,” he says.

With a strong emphasis on mental, physical, and social benefits, Hitfit is reshaping how boxing is viewed in the community. It’s not just about throwing punches; it’s about building discipline, strength, and self-belief.

Currently, Hitfit operates in Ravenhall, Melton, Hoppers Crossing, and Maidstone, with four new locations expected to open next year. Each gym offers a range of programs for adults and children, blending professional coaching with a supportive, community-focused environment.

“Our members come to us with all kinds of goals—weight loss, stress relief, gaining confidence—and watching them achieve those things is the most rewarding part of what we do,” Darcy shares. “We see real transformation.”

40 Years On: Remembering the Fight of the Century

On July 12, 1985, two young warriors stepped into the ring and etched their names into Australian boxing history. Lester Ellis, just 19 years old, defended his IBF World Title against the relentless Barry Michael in what would become known as the Australian Fight of the Century.

Fought over 15 gruelling rounds at Melbourne’s Festival Hall, the bout was more than just a title fight — it was a battle of wills, pride, and endurance. Michael ultimately claimed victory by unanimous decision, but the contest was so fiercely contested that both men walked away with respect, legacy, and the admiration of the boxing world.

Now, 40 years on, the rivalry has turned into a deep friendship. To mark the anniversary, Ellis and Michael reunited at Hitfit Melton to run a special session inspired by their legendary fight — sharing stories, training tips, and a few cheeky jabs with the Hitfit community.

From fierce rivals to lifelong mates, their story continues to inspire a new generation of boxers — and reminds us all what it means to leave everything in the ring.

This year marks the incredible 40th anniversary of the legendary world title fight between Lester Ellis and Barry Michael, two icons of Australian boxing. Their unforgettable 1985 clash captivated the nation and helped shape the sport’s golden era.

To celebrate this milestone, Hitfit Melton is hosting an exclusive member only event with Lester Ellis and Barry Michael in person. It’s a rare opportunity to hear firsthand stories, insights, and reflections from both champions about that historic night and their remarkable careers.

Michael is the definition of a Hitfit legend.

Since joining in March 2022, he has shown up with unmatched dedication. He’s clocked over 500 visits, completed more than 650 classes, lost an incredible 35 kilos, and made life-changing decisions by quitting both drinking and smoking.

He didn’t stop there.

Michael has completed four Rise to the Ring camps and stepped into the ring for four official bouts. Each time, he’s pushed himself beyond limits most people never reach.

But his journey is about more than fitness.

Through Hitfit, Michael has built friendships and found a sense of community that didn’t exist before he walked through our doors. His transformation, both physically and mentally, is what Hitfit is all about.

Today, we’re proud to call him a true Hitfit Legend — and his journey is just getting started.

At over 90 years of age, Arthur is proof that it’s never too late to start something new. A proud great-grandfather of four, Arthur once had a deep passion for cycling, until his wife gently insisted he stop, worried it had become too dangerous. Respecting her wishes, Arthur gave up riding. But his drive to stay active and healthy never faded.

Instead of slowing down, Arthur found a new path forward, boxing at Hitfit. With gloves on and determination in his stride, he now trains regularly, showing up with a smile, sharp reflexes, and a fierce spirit. For Arthur, boxing isn’t about fighting, it’s about staying strong, agile, and mentally sharp.

He’s become an inspiration to everyone at the gym, from teenagers to seasoned athletes, proving that age is no barrier when you’re committed to your wellbeing. While many his age might be slowing down, Arthur is speeding up in his own way,  jabbing, moving, and thriving in the Hitfit community.

His story is a powerful reminder, real strength isn’t just in the body, it’s in the decision to keep showing up. Arthur isn’t just training, he’s rewriting what it means to grow old.

Our franchisees Harvey, Tennille, Robbie, and Vanessa have all stepped into the ring at Hitfit’s amateur boxing events!

Now their journey has come full circle as they’re paying it forward to help others change their lives through boxing.

Hitfit recently experienced an electrifying evening as it welcomed the pound-for-pound boxing champion, Terence "Bud" Crawford. The gym was filled to capacity, with members and fans eager to witness the presence of one of boxing's greatest. Crawford's visit was more than just a meet and greet; it was an inspiring session where he observed the Hitfit team in action, offering invaluable advice and sharing his wealth of experience.

Kerry has visited Hitfit over 1000 times.
Kerry is the most attended Hitfit member in history, and we know she’s just getting started.
What started as an interest in boxing became a life-changing journey!

Global superstar and reigning pound for pound king Terence Crawford is coming to Hitfit Melton, one of Australia's largest and most inclusive boxing gyms, for an exclusive masterclass on Thursday 29 May at 6:30pm.

Boxing stars Tim Tszyu and Caitlin Parker paid a special visit to Hitfit, inspiring the next generation with their stories, energy, and passion for the sport. For our young boxers, it was a chance to meet their heroes and see what’s possible with hard work and heart. Moments like these create lifelong motivation.

Watch how Andrew and Melissa Parnis lost a staggering 170 kg between them.

At his heaviest, Andrew weighed over 210 kg and now weighs just 120 kg, losing an incredible 90 kg. Melissa also shed 90 kg, having once weighed over 150 kg.

The pair took up boxing at Hitfit three years ago and have never looked back, driven by the motivation of their children they train morning and night.

Once fierce rivals in the ring, Billy Dib, Barry Michael, and Lester Ellis reunited at Hitfit Hoppers Crossing to showcase the life changing benefits of boxing for all Australians.

Featured in a Channel 9 News segment, the Hitfit ambassadors came together to demonstrate how boxing can empower anyone to improve their health, confidence, and mindset regardless of age or experience.

Mikell dropped over 60kgs through hard work, consistency, and the support of the Hitfit community. His journey is more than just weight loss, it’s a full life transformation. And as recognition for his incredible effort, he got the chance to meet boxing legend Jeff Fenech.

Stevie Baker opens up about how boxing has changed his life on The Footy Show!

Training alongside former world champion Lester Ellis.

Stevie has been dialed in as he prepares for his second fight against Damien Lock at the Team Ellis show on Saturday, May 3rd 2025.

Meet the Boxing Granny, Elsie!

Featured on Channel 9's A Current Affair,

Elsie is an inspiring woman from our community who has traded bingo for boxing gloves and discovered a life-changing passion.

Her strength, determination, and zest for life remind us all that it's never too late to embrace something new and unleash your inner fighter.