HERALD SUN | Forty years after his brutal ‘fight of the century’ with Barry Michael, Lester Ellis’ sons are making their name in boxing, but not as fighters

SOURCE | HERALD SUN

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.”