(Picture by Emily Harney / Fightography)
A hometown crowd, family in the stands, and a career fueled by passion—Jenn Perella is stepping back into the spotlight on May 16 with more motivation than ever.
The Milton, Massachusetts native will compete in her sixth professional bout at “Rumble at the Rink II,” presented by Granite Chin Promotions, at the Quincy Youth Arena in Quincy.
A meaningful homecoming fight
Perella (4-1, 1 KO) faces Irish featherweight Kate Radomska in a six-round bout—but this fight is about more than just records.
Fighting less than five miles from her hometown of Milton, Perella is set to compete in front of a deeply personal crowd—including, for the first time, her children.
“My last fight was at Encore (Boston Harbor) in Everett,” said Perella. “That was close to home but Quincy is even closer to Milton. This means a lot to me because a lot of people will be coming out to support me. I’m feeling good and I want to put on a show for everybody. I’ve got a really good fan base that supports me and my crazy dreams.”
“And kids can come to watch me fight (May 16), unlike at Encore (21+ only)… This will be the first time my children watch me fight in person.”
From amateur standout to late-career pro run
At 42, Perella’s journey is anything but typical.
A former Endicott College field hockey player, she built an impressive amateur boxing résumé, including:
- Silver medal at the 2024 National Golden Gloves
- Champion at the 2016 New England Golden Gloves
After a five-year hiatus due to COVID restrictions, she returned to the sport in 2023 while preparing for a Haymakers for Hope charity event—and hasn’t looked back.
Fighting with family behind her
This fight carries emotional weight, with her entire family expected cageside.
“My father has always been there for me,” Jenn noted. “He always gives me a hug before I get into the ring. He gets so nervous for me. My husband worked the corner for two of my fights and he’s always there supporting me.”
“I guarded them but they understand more what their mother does now.”
Her husband, Boston Fire Department Captain Anthony Perella, along with her father and children, will be front row—turning fight night into a full-circle moment.
Co-main buzz: Ryan Kielczweski returns
Also headlining the card is a major local storyline, as Ryan Kielczweski (31-6, 11 KOs) returns from a four-year layoff.
“The Polish Prince,” a former world-ranked contender and Quincy native, will compete in an eight-round junior welterweight bout—marking just his third professional fight in his hometown.
Undercard matchup to watch
Massachusetts light heavyweights Bobby Laing (2-0, 2 KOs) and Russ Kimber (3-3, 1 KO) will collide in a four-round crossroads fight with local bragging rights on the line.
More than boxing: A full fan experience
“Rumble at the Rink II” is shaping up to be more than just a fight card.
- The event will stream live on BXNGTV
- A portion of proceeds supports the Quincy Fire Cancer Foundation
- Special appearances include Butterbean and Micky Ward
- Fan Zone meet-and-greets and sponsor activations will enhance the live experience
Butterbean will even step in as a guest referee for a featured exhibition bout, adding a unique twist to the night.
Why this fight matters
For Perella, this isn’t just another bout—it’s a moment years in the making.
A comeback fueled by passion.
A career balanced with family.
And a chance to finally perform in front of the people who’ve supported her from day one.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, and Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and is also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer. He’s also the main photographer for the 4CornersMafia Car Club.
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