Expert: Jack Rose - 4/13/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, From Massachusetts, I'm 22 years old, I've done some Amateur boxing, only one 'official' fight. However with my age not going down any time soon ;) I feel I want to try as a Pro, and not 'try' as in just test the waters and play, I sincerely believe I have the ability to do fairly well. So I've printed up a form for a license from the state. Now I'm unsure where to go from here.
How do I get a Corner man? Does he need a License? (My brother is a personal trainer can I have him?)
How do I get fights? (and i mean fights where as a fighter with no record, ones I can actually win, and not just be some 10-0 guy's, 11th padded win).

I hope this isn't too much, and really any information you could supply me would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for taking time out of your day to respond.

ANSWER: Ryan,

Your corner man will also have to get a license. It should be listed near the same location as your license on the website. It is a specific license for boxing coaches. Your brother or anyone can do it as long as he gets the license.

You will have to get on the phone and hustle up some fights or try to meet with a promoter. If he thinks you have potential he may sign you which means he will get all the fights and put up the money. If not, you and your manager will have to call some boxing venues, casinos etc.... and ask if you can get on their cards. Someone is always promoting an event no matter where it is so even if you don't have a contract you can still get fights one by one until the promoter sees what you can do. Promoters have a matchmaker and they will make the fights but normally need your and your manager's final approval. How you get matched will depend on how your perceived by the promoter or matchmaker. The bottom line is, you'll be considered a possible contender, a journeyman or an opponent. If little or no amateur fights they will lump you in the opponent and journeyman pile until you prove them different which means you could fight ranked guys.

good luck,

Jack


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the reply Jack, just a quick follow up.

went to Mass.gov, found the Boxing Comission, and I am looking at the licensing page, however, I don't find a Corner man's license listed. I do how ever see "Seconds" licesne.

If My brother is my "Coach" (would get a manager license, correct?) Can he also be the Corner man?

I'm just trying to figure all this out in regard to what I "NEED" to have w/o going over the top.

Answer
Ryan,

The license your brother needs to work the corner is what they are referring to as a "seconds" license. That's the one he needs.

There is no manager's license. Hiring a manager is just a business decision that is optional. Some boxers manage themselves or their coach does double duty as manager and trainer.

You could get by with just you and your brother as boxer - trainer/manager.  I recommend a second guy in the corner. He also needs a "seconds" license. He would work cuts, take care of the stool and the spit bucket. Otherwise one guy would have to take the spit bucket, water bottle, medical supplies for cuts, the stool, ice pack and the towel up to the corner between each round and have one minute to give instructions while possibly working a cut, give him water, wipe blood from his face, apply ice to his neck etc etc....  and then get the stuff out of the corner before the bell rings.

hope this helps, good luck,

Jack