Expert: Lian Shoemake - 2/25/2006

Question
What is involved with a fighter turning pro. Can they come out as a professional from the start provided they have the training or must they work through an amateur circuit first?

Answer
Hi Michael,

Thanks for the question.

I'm not aware of any state that requires a boxer to have amateur experience before turning professional. Usually, a state athletic commission will require a boxer to have a physical and complete an application before he or she would be licensed to box as a pro.

You can check directly with your state's athletic commission to see what the procedure is where you live.

I hope this helps, Michael.

Thanks again for writing!

Regards,
Lian