Giovanni Perkins (left) and Cory Brooks (right) discuss their tournament occurring the next day after checking that they are within their weight class at Rochester Fight Factory. The boys fight in different weight and age classes, but often spar against each other during practice to improve their skills.
Giovanni and Cory share a punching bag during practice. Though the boys compete in different age and weight classes, they always practice together. "They're more like brothers than cousins," said Giovanni's father, Christopher Perkins.
Cory and Christopher leave Rochester Fight Factory. Brooks had to attend practice without his cousin, Giovanni Perkins, because he had a headache and spent the afternoon at his mother's home.
Christopher critiques and times Giovanni while he practices jabs, hooks, and other punches at the Perkins' home. Perkins either shadow boxes, runs, or lifts everyday to train for boxing.
Christopher helps Cory tie his shoes, while Coach TJ tucks in Manny Gonzalez' shirt before the boys warm up for their matches at the Silver Gloves. Brooks lost his match while Gonzalez won.
Giovanni peaks through a set of bleachers before his match.
Coach TJ gives Cory advice before a boxing match against Andre Mendez.
Coach Q wraps Giovanni's hands in preparation for his match. Giovanni later lost his match, the first loss of his career.
Giovanni quietly cries while Coach Q asks; "You know what you have to do now?" Giovanni replied, while quietly crying, "Work hard, put in work."
Cory and Giovanni take turns playing a game on Brooks' phone before leaving to compete in a tournament.
Giovanni rests his head on his father's seat while waiting for food in a drive-through.