Ft. Pierce Police Department Master Officer Paul Pearson said he thinks amateur boxing in America is getting better and the championships this weekend will showcase that talent.

"People might see a future Olympian," Pearson said. "They might see someone who might go on to represent our country.

"This might be the year. We had a lot of good boxers in the 1970s and then took a step back in the '80s and '90s. Now, I think we're making strides for 2012."

To compete in the event, boxers have to be between the ages of 17 and 35, plus they must have competed in at least 10 amateur bouts.

"We're looking for the best, basically," Pearson said. "You can't just walk in there or you'd get killed."

What: 2011 USA Open Men and Women Boxing Championships

When: Friday, Saturday

Where: Fort Pierce Police Athletic League Center, 1401 N. Second St., Fort Pierce

Tickets: $10

Format: Bouts begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, 6 p.m. on Saturday, with doors opening an hour prior to the first bout. There will be between 16-20 bouts per night

Contact: 772-466-0606