Twin brothers and Aberdeen residents, Ollie and Adam Foley, are quickly making a name for themselves in the boxing world, proving that hard work and discipline can go a long way, even in a short amount of time.
The Pinecrest High School juniors have only been boxing for about eight months, but their commitment already separates them from the pack. What started as watching fights on TV and training on their own has quickly turned into a daily routine built around one goal: getting better every single day.
“It’s an individual sport,” Ollie said. “All the pressure is on you and all the training. You have to do it for yourself.”
For Adam, the passion runs just as deep.
“I love everything about it,” he said. “There aren’t too many things I can say that about, but boxing is probably the first thing where I like everything about it.”
The brothers train out of Warrior Saints Boxing in Fayetteville, where they credit their rapid improvement to both their coaches and the work they put in day after day. Long runs and constant sparring have become the norm.
“Sometimes we wake up at four in the morning and run five or six miles,” Ollie said. “Nobody wants to do that, but if you want to be the best, you have to go through the hard times to get to the good times.”
Even with limited experience, both fighters have already stepped into competition. They competed in the North Carolina Silver Gloves, with Ollie delivering a unanimous victory that included scoring an eight-count in the third round. Adam also scored a standing eight-count but came up short in a split decision, but he isn’t backing down from the moment.
“A dangerous man is someone who has something to prove,” Adam said. “I’ve got something to prove. I can’t let it go to the judges next time.”
They’ve also gained experience beyond official fights, sparring with higher-level competition even early in their boxing journey. They believe that exposure is helping accelerate their growth.
While they share the same mindset, their styles in the ring are different. Ollie describes himself as more technical, focused on defense and finding openings. Adam, on the other hand, embraces a more aggressive, high-action approach that keeps fans engaged.
Together, they push each other in everything they do.
“We’re always trying to do a little more than each other,” Ollie said. “Whether it’s running, lifting, or sit-ups, we always go a little extra. It keeps us disciplined.”
That competitive bond shows on fight days as well, where they often compete side by side.
“It makes it more rewarding,” Adam said. “We wake up knowing we’re both about to go fight, and we’ve both put in the work for it.”
With upcoming fights already scheduled and long-term goals of turning professional, the brothers have their sights set on the top of the sport.
“I want to turn pro and work my way up,” Ollie said. “Become a world champion and just see how far we can take it.”
For two fighters just getting started, the foundation is already in place. And if their work ethic continues at this pace, this is only the beginning of what could be something special.
You can follow the Foley brothers at the following Instagram accounts: @foleybrothersboxing, @realadamfoley, and @_Olliefoley_
If you are interested in becoming a local sponsor for upcoming tournaments, you can contact them at: [email protected].
Feature photo: Adam (left) and Ollie Foley. Contributed photograph.
If you would like to read more feel-good stories, please email your news or ideas to [email protected].
~Article by Curtis Self, a Sandhills Sentinel reporter and owner of Moore Daily Sports. Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
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