Expert: Jack Rose - 12/16/2008

Question
I am a boxer, with amatuer experience, looking for my first pro bout. I really didnt want to use the manager that my new trainer uses,since I just to Delaware from Philadelphia. What do I need to know to manage myself?
Thank You!

Answer
Jeffrey,

You need negotiating skills and you need to know how contracts work. Your biggest deals will be with promoters. If they want you to join their stable of fighters they will want a contract. It helps to know what is and is not acceptable depending on who the boxer is, what their record is and what their potential is, which in this case is you so you need to be honest with yourself what you think your value is at this point in your career.
Until you hookup with a promoter you will be bargaining with small time venues. Unless you were a well known amateur, the numbers will favor whoever is promoting the event so expect to take a couple of shots to the ego until you build a good record. The better you get and the more you please the crowd, the more negotiating power you will have.

It will also cost you more money out of your own pocket to fight if you manage yourself. All expenses are usually picked up by the manager early in your career. This adds up to thousands of dollars in most cases, travel, lodging, gas, food and miscellaneous. This includes expenses for the second in the corner and your cut man unless one of the two trainers works cuts as well. In exchange, the manager has a contract with the fighter for a piece of the pie.



good luck,

Jackson