Spy: Punch-up countdown on for NZ stars

Millie Elder-Holmes, right, with her boxing opponent Frankie Adams. Photo / Fiona Goodall

Frankie Adams and Millie Elder-Holmes squared off for the first time in the boxing ring on Wednesday, just a month out from their much-anticipated slug-fest.

The "Battle of the Belles" is looming as the main drawcard for the KFC Fight for Life at Claudelands Arena in Hamilton on December 6. The bout is among the biggest celebrity face-offs in the event's 13-year history.

Elder-Holmes is fighting in memory of her slain partner Connor Morris, who died earlier this year. And Shortland St star Adams will take to the boxing ring just weeks after her appearance on large billboards promoting Bonds underwear.

As the pair ramp up their pre-fight training, they met for a promotional photo shoot for Spy.

Elder-Holmes emerged from hair and makeup first but wouldn't discuss her training. It is almost like she is approaching the fight from the shadows, wanting the advantage of surprise on the night.

But make no mistake, the former model is looking fit and determined. "When Connor passed I did not eat for 10 days and I lost 7kg. I have put that all back on now from training and building up muscle."

Once Adams appeared, the pair started their posing. First call for fists up and they giggle like school friends. But as one minder noted, as soon as one punch is thrown on fight-night, all that feel-good stuff will be out the window. Elder-Holmes then tells Adams she loves her trainers and the pair talk clothes for a moment.

We asked Adams if she was concerned the crowd would be behind Elder-Holmes.

"I understand that, but honestly it won't be on my mind. I can tell you when I am training I cannot think about script lines for scenes for the next morning, I am so focused on the skills that I am learning."

Adams is being trained by Master Lolo Heimuli at City Boxing in Kingsland. Fellow Shorty St star Pua Magasiva will be her spot person in the ring on the night and Adams expects a few other cast members along, plus family and friends, some of whom are flying from Australia to see her boxing debut. Elder-Holmes will also have a strong support crew.

The fight card also includes New Zealand's leading heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker, who will take on an as yet unconfirmed opponent.

Fireworks are expected when former league and boxing pro Monty Betham squares off with former All Black Carlos Spencer, and league star Willie Mason takes on giant Chiefs rugby prop Ben Tameifuna.