The Spotlight Insider: Inside Lynchburg’s Boxing Culture with Cujo Sigmon, Austin “The Native Nightmare” DeAnda, and Cristian “El Gallo Negro” Fuentes
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On the latest episode of The Spotlight Insider, host Johnathan “TeflonJohn” Smith sat down with one of the driving forces behind Lynchburg’s thriving boxing scene promoter, coach, and mentor Scott “Cujo” Sigmon alongside two of his undefeated fighters, Austin “The Native Nightmare” DeAnda (16-0, 10 KOs) and Cristian “El Gallo Negro” Fuentes (6-0).
With fight night Thunder & Lightning set for Saturday, September 6, at the Crosswhite Athletic Club in Lynchburg, Virginia, the episode offers an unfiltered look at what it takes to sacrifice for boxing, build trust between fighters and coaches, and create opportunities in a community not often recognized as a boxing hub.
Building More Than Boxers: Cujo’s Mentorship
Scott “Cujo” Sigmon, a veteran of the sport and founder of Toe to Toe Promotions, made it clear early in the conversation that his role is more than just a coach. For him, mentorship, loyalty, and transparency are at the heart of everything.
“I don’t just train fighters. I mentor them in life,” Cujo explained. From sharing financial lessons to guiding fighters away from dishonest promoters, Cujo has built his gym around a culture of honesty and family. He says loyalty is the cornerstone of his relationships, adding one of his favorite phrases: “Loyalty makes royalty in boxing.”
That mindset has earned him the respect and trust of rising prospects like Austin and Cristian, who credit Cujo for believing in them even when opportunities were scarce.
Austin “The Native Nightmare” DeAnda: From Amherst to the Spotlight
At just 22 years old, Austin DeAnda has already compiled a perfect professional record of 16-0 with 10 knockouts. But his journey wasn’t easy. Growing up in Amherst, he struggled with weight, worked odd jobs to keep training, and even experienced homelessness during a fight camp.
“Sacrifice is part of it,” Austin shared. “You miss birthdays, family events, hanging out with friends. But if you want to make it in this sport, you’ve got to stay patient and keep showing up.”
That patience has paid off. Austin has sparred with elite fighters like David Stevens and Vito Miliki and has built a reputation for discipline and focus. Today, Cujo insists he’s on track to be “a future top-20 guy in the division.” On September 6, fans will see Austin put those years of sacrifice to the test under the bright lights of Lynchburg Fight Night.
Cristian “El Gallo Negro” Fuentes: Fighting for Family and Legacy
At 24, Cristian Fuentes enters the ring carrying more than just his gloves. With roots in El Salvador and Guatemala, he fights to represent his family and provide for them, often sending support home while chasing his boxing dreams.
He credits his primary trainer, Bishop Walker known in the gym as “Ugly Bishop” along with Cujo, for shaping his confidence, discipline, and belief in himself.
With blistering hand speed, offensive flair, and charisma, Cristian has already built an undefeated 6-0 record. His opponent on September 6 is no easy task a veteran with more than 50 fights but Cristian welcomes the challenge. “I know I have the speed and the offense to get the job done,” he said, reflecting both determination and excitement for his biggest test yet.
Sacrifice, Discipline, and Community
One of the strongest themes in this episode is sacrifice. Both Austin and Cristian spoke openly about the lifestyle they’ve given up to chase boxing no late nights, no partying, no excuses. For them, every decision circles back to the discipline needed to survive as professional athletes.
Cujo echoed this point throughout the episode, highlighting the fighters’ mentality:
“They just keep showing up. That’s what makes the difference.”
Beyond the fighters’ dedication, the episode underscored the importance of community. Lynchburg may not be a household name in boxing, but its fans have turned out in force, making local shows a success and helping elevate fighters toward televised opportunities.
“Don’t wait until these guys are stars on TV,” Cujo urged. “Support them now, while they’re putting in the work and taking real risks in that ring.”
Fight Night: Thunder & Lightning — September 6
The episode built toward one message: show up on Saturday, September 6 at the Crosswhite Athletic Club in Lynchburg, Virginia. Thunder & Lightning will feature eight professional fights, headlined by undefeated prospects like Austin and Cristian, and promises a night of high-stakes action and unforgettable moments.
Tickets and details are available directly through Cujo Sigmon on Facebook.
Final Thoughts
This episode of The Spotlight Insider captures the raw spirit of Lynchburg boxing, grit, loyalty, sacrifice, and the dream of turning local fighters into national stars. For Cujo Sigmon, Austin DeAnda, and Cristian Fuentes, the fight goes far beyond the ring. It’s about building trust, creating opportunities, and proving that greatness can come from anywhere.
Whether you’re a longtime boxing fan or just discovering the sport, The Spotlight Insider episode is a powerful reminder that behind every undefeated record is a story of struggle, sacrifice, and relentless determination.
Catch the full conversation now on YouTube: The Spotlight Insider, and stay connected with The Spotlight Insider brand:
Instagram: @IamTeflonJohn
TikTok: @SpotlightInsider
YouTube: The Spotlight Insider
Website: teflonjohn.com/the-spotlight-insider
Austin “The Native Nightmare” Deanda: @nativenightmare434
Cristian “El Gallo Negro” Fuentes: @realgallonegro_fuentes
Scott “Cujo” Sigmon: @Scottcujosigmon
Bishop “Ugly Bishop” Walker: @ubtattoo
