Expert: Jack Rose - 10/14/2011

Question
hello,
my name is Eric and im currently in the military and i have a couple more years until i get.  i deploy a lot but i exercise and i spar with people on the ship.  i am 23 and i was wondering if that is to late to start at a career.  i love to box and i am not scared to step in the ring with anyone.  i was wondering what approach should i take?  and do u think im to late to start a boxing career thanks so much.

Answer
Hello Eric,

Ideally you would want to start boxing in your teens. But 23 is not out of the question. You can typically box until your mid 30's or even later if you have good enough defense to minimize head shots over the years.

Here is what you need to be successful in boxing as a pro: Good skills, A good chin, good defense, at least one punch in your arsenal that can hurt people, the will to fight, great conditioning, an excellent trainer and manager who have YOUR best interest at heart and a good promoter.

Where to start:  If your staying in the military you should start boxing in the military tournaments via your branch of service and attempt to qualify for the National Golden Gloves. I would get as many fights as you can over 3 years, then sit down with your trainer and make a decision based on your success and potential. The main thing you need is national experience and you get that at tournaments like National Golden Gloves, PAL Nationals, USA Boxing Championships and the Military Championships.
To make an honest run at the pros I would suggest turning pro no later than 27 with at least two busy years of amateur experience.

You are not too old and don't let anybody tell you different. With some dedication, good skills and a big heart to back it all up, you can make up a lot of ground in a short period of time. You have a good attitude I can tell so you've got half the battle won.

Best of luck to you!