STATE Of Origin is a concept that stirs the blood of most Queenslanders.
Usually the sport is rugby league and the foe is New South Wales but on Saturday night at Mareeba Shire Hall some of Queensland's best boxers will battle the pride of the Northern Territory in a State of Origin showdown.
With at least 12 fights, including undercards, to take place on the night, Origin organiser and boxing trainer Paddy McLean said he expected a willing contest.
"None of the Queensland boys will want to lose that's for sure," he said.
"If it turns out to be a good show then we'll be returning the favour to the Northern Territory in August and go over there.
"We're hoping it will become an annual thing. I've made up a shield and everything.
"We’re hoping for a good crowd on Saturday. We've been getting good vibes from the locals."
One of the boxers representing Queensland on Saturday is Cairns PCYC-based fighter Ben Kite.
The 17-year-old's trainer, Phil Murphy, said his charge could not have prepared much better for his bout.
"He's really looking forward to it. He's been sparring really hard," he said.
"I hope he gets a good result because he's had a couple of bad decisions go against him.
"I took him and some other fighters down to a boxing camp in Brisbane last month and tried out a few different things.
"He worked really hard and hopefully that pays off."
Former Australian junior lightweight champion Quinton Donahue will also be in action Saturday night.
The 27-year-old will warm up for his professional comeback on May 17 with an exhibition fight.
Fights start 7.30pm.
