Expert: Jack Rose - 12/17/2009

Question
Im a amateur who just started Iam 27yrs old and only have 4fights, i been told that i have a pro-style and etc. What worries me is my age? I dont want to rush and crash at the end! i know amateur experience is very important! I want to go pro by 2010 which is next year do you think that is too soon? should i should stay amateur longer? i have a friend who trains with me who is a pro and only had 10 amateur fights and is a very good pro as for now!=) regionals? how do i getthere? golden gloves? how many fights do i need to participate in those events? and my last question is a boxers diet? i walk around 129 but im fighting at 119 i wanna eat healthy and not starve my self to make weight.what do you suggest for the eating part?  Thanks so much! and its very cool that you take your time to answer Q's.

Answer
Ronny,

That is a tough question to answer without seeing you in a action. Every fighter has different potential. You can turn pro anytime you want in boxing and sometimes that is a curse.

Not seeing you in action I can only give you advice based upon what you have told me without taking into account any special talent you might have. It also depends on what your goals are. If you are doing this for fun or a bread winner. I have to assume your 4 fights were novice division which means you haven't fought any "open" fighters. Before you turn pro I would definitely get some open fights under my belt. I would get as many fights as I could in the open division for 2 years and then think again about turning pro at 29.
To get in the regionals you have to be an "open" fighter. There is no number of fights required to be open but usually guys have more than 5 and less than 15. Your coach enters you in the regionals. You are matched through a random draw. It is single elimination. You have to win the regionals to make the team for the nationals.

Leading up to the weigh about 2 weeks before, You should start eating lite foods. Stay away from heavy foods like peanut butter, chocolate, heavy dressings and syrups. Get a good solid protein like a steak or a grilled or baked fish. Eat smaller portions and spread your meals out. Plenty of veggies. Plenty of water. Never miss breakfast. No soft drinks. Don't eat before bed. Full nights sleep.  You should be at your fight weight the say before the weigh in. Your weight will fluctuate a pound or two over the next day so don't take any chances.

good luck