Expert: Jack Rose - 10/11/2008

Question
I am fairly young in the boxing game far as experience, but 30 yrs of age. I started boxing 18 months ago and won a state title in the 192lb novice division. Then I won a second state title (Golden Gloves) in the novice division. I just had my 1st open fight and was successful with a victory. I have been talking with a lot of trainers who are suggesting that I turn pro immediately because of my age, but I know I need more amatuer experience. Many trainers tell me you only get $100 to $120 a round when starting as a pro, but honestly can I make more than that?

Answer
Paul,

That amount is about right if you were to turn pro right now. But here is what I would do if I were in your shoes and why.
I would try to make it to the national golden gloves. It is in early May 2009 in Salt Lake City, UT. You have to win your regional golden gloves to qualify. Then after the nationals, I would turn pro. If you lose in the regionals I would also turn pro.
Here is why. The bigger name you have when you turn pro the more money you'll make faster. Since the meat of the GG season is approaching, go ahead and try to make the nationals and if you win a national title, you will have promoters interested in you and your earning potential becomes much better. Even if you don't make the nationals you'll get valuable open division experience. Even if you lose, as long as you make a good showing and impress the right people, they will still see your potential as a pro.
If you turn pro right now, you will get 5 or 600 a fight at best until you build a record and a reputation. Most pros start to fade around 37 depending on how much punishment they have taken. So you've got some time to make some money.
If you do well at the nationals and a promoter signs you could make $1000 a fight or more to start and get quicker tv fights which pay more. This is the route I would go, but that's my opinion.

good luck,

Jackson