“A world class city needs world class events.”

In 1972, the Woods family, boasting generations of boxing heritage, moved to Port Credit, Ontario, Canada, from Clydebank, Scotland.

At the young age of 11, Leslie (Les) Junior witnessed his first World Title fight, alongside his grandfather Harry Woods, Chief Inspector of The British Boxing Board of Control. Champion Jim Watt from Scotland fought Howard Davis Junior in Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow. What was once only a riveting and engrossing account told numerous times by his grandfather, was now an awe-inspiring reality. This was indeed a turning point for Les, leaving a marked impression on his young mind for the years to come.

From that day forward, “the sweet science” ignited a passion in Les. For almost two decades, Woods was introduced to the most elegant part of the sport while attending the St. Andrew’s Sporting Club in Glasgow. For him, he viewed boxing as a gentleman’s sport, exuding class and elegance.

On his visits to Canada, Les’ grandfather envisioned bringing World class boxing shows to Toronto, emanating the elegance of Scotland’s St. Andrew’s Sporting Club. In the late 1980s Tommy Gilmour, president of the club, contemplated this venture. Unfortunately, logistics and timing just weren’t feasible.

Two-and-a-half decades later, the timing couldn’t be better. One night, over what could now be considered a very providential dinner, Les was inspired speaking with Olympic Medallist Chris Johnson and World Heavyweight Champion Lennox Lewis, to bring his grandfather’s dreams to fruition and continue his family’s legacy. The decision was unanimous… “it’s time”.