OUR MISSION

Budweiser Guns ’N Hoses – A St. Louis Tradition

Every year on Thanksgiving Eve, the Enterprise Center in downtown St. Louis roars to life, filled to capacity for the greatest boxing event in the nation — Budweiser Guns ’N Hoses. For 38 consecutive years, this unforgettable night has united our community to honor and support the families of fallen and catastrophically injured first responders.

Our very own “Red and Blue” step into the ring to represent their departments, peers, families, and community with pride. The evening is a spectacle like no other, featuring the solemn Ten Count Ceremony, electrifying performances, celebrity appearances, and a full slate of competitive bouts. For many families and friends across the region, Guns ’N Hoses marks the true beginning of the holiday season — a sold-out tradition that grows stronger every year.

The 2025 theme is “Experience the Cause,” highlighting the mission at the heart of this event. Budweiser Guns ’N Hoses is presented by the St. Louis Guns ’N Hoses Boxing Association, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All funds raised are donated directly to The BackStoppers each February. The organization is governed by a Board of Directors led by President David Stokes and Executive Director Steve Holley, supported by an extraordinary group of volunteers, chiefs from local police and fire departments, union officials, first responders, and community members who share a passion for this cause.

Budweiser Guns ’N Hoses consists of three-round boxing matches between area police officers and firefighters, with every punch thrown in support of The BackStoppers. This local organization provides critical financial assistance and support to the spouses and dependent children of police officers, firefighters, volunteer firefighters, paramedics, and EMTs in our coverage area who have lost their lives or suffered a catastrophic injury in the line of duty.

On this night before Thanksgiving, thousands gather not only for the excitement of the matches, but also to honor the lives of more than 100 fallen first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their families are left with unimaginable loss — but also with the assurance that they will not face it alone. Proceeds from Guns ’N Hoses help provide living necessities, cover debts, ensure healthcare, fund education, and give hope to surviving spouses and children.

To date, Budweiser Guns ’N Hoses has raised more than $13 million. In 2024, for the fourth consecutive year, a record-setting $1 million donation was presented to The BackStoppers. Today, this support reaches approximately 95 families and 80 children — proof of the profound impact this event makes on our community.

Budweiser Guns ’N Hoses: Where tradition meets purpose, and every fight honors a hero.