Expert: Jack Rose - 8/11/2010

Question
im a 27 yr old boxer from philadelphia i only have 1 amatuer fight due to moving to delaware and not trusting another trainer. Ive been in some of the toughest gym wars with some of the best pro fighters philly has to offer. Ive been woorking with some really good pro fighters outta delaware. Since i will not be capable of making the 2012 olympics and my style is used to a pro fighter im ready to make my mark in the pros. What do u think?

Answer
Jeffrey,

The answer is kind of a judgement call. I can tell you what I would do in your shoes knowing what I know about the pros.


First of all you have to consider you can usually fight into your late 30's. So at 27 you probably have around 10 years give or take. That's a fair amount of fight time.

I also know that with only one amateur fight you will immediately be assumed an opponent for contenders. So unless you have a manager that knows how to shape your career, you will be in for some tough fights right off the bat. Of course you might surprise somebody and beat one of the contenders which would propel you into a category as a possible contender. But without fight experience you will likely win a few and lose a few which will eventually make you a journeyman.
You are unlikely to turn down these fights because they pay better than fighting bums. Unless, you are loaded and money is no object then you could turn them down and build a record instead.

So, over the next 2 years I would fight every amateur show that came down the pike. You could probably get 30 or 40. And then turn pro at 29 or 30. I'd find someone who's business that is a friend and asked them you manage me. Get a good trainer who cares about YOUR best interest and knows how to pick fights. Then try to get hooked up with a matchmaker. Fight a few bums at first just so you can get used to the lights and the pro crowds (they are much different than amateur fans).
Then take your best shot.

good luck