Amateur to Pro: The Journey of Boxers in the World of Boxing

By Victor Ramirez   2023-05-19  

Boxing is a challenging and demanding sport requiring physical strength, mental toughness, and strategic thinking. The journey from being an amateur boxer to becoming a professional is long and challenging, filled with ups and downs, victories and defeats. But the journey is worth it for individuals passionate about the sport. 

In this article, we will explore the journey of boxers in the world of boxing, from the early days of training in local gyms, to the excitement of amateur competitions and finally to the intense pressure of professional bouts. We will look closely at the essential skills and qualities for success in the ring and the challenges that boxers face. 

So whether you are a boxing enthusiast or simply curious about the sport, delve into the amateur to the pro boxing world.

Types Of Boxers

There are mainly two types of boxers: amateur and professional. An amateur boxer is a person who does not get any payment for their fights. At the same time, a professional boxer is a person who is paid for their fights. Amateur boxing is commonly considered a stepping stone to professional boxing. 

The International Boxing Association (AIBA) governs Amateur Boxing and lays the rules and regulations for amateur boxing worldwide. Amateur boxers compete in tournaments and championships on the country and worldwide levels. They are generally not paid for their fights but acquire monetary support from their country’s boxing association or sponsors.

IBA - International Boxing Association +++

On the other hand, different organizations, such as the World Boxing Association (WBA), International Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Council (WBC), and World Boxing Organization (WBO) govern Professional Boxing. Professional boxers are paid for their fights and regularly have sponsors. They compete in bouts scheduled for a specific range of rounds and can win titles and belts.

The Journey of an Amateur Boxer

An amateur boxer’s journey starts with training and preparation. Amateur boxers commonly begin their training in nearby gyms, where they learn the basics of boxing. They work on their footwork, punching technique, and protective skills. Once they have some experience, they may start competing in local amateur boxing tournaments. Local boxing clubs generally organize these tournaments, allowing amateur boxers to gain experience and improve their skills.

Amateur boxers may also compete in nationwide and worldwide tournaments as they develop skills. To qualify for those tournaments, they should first compete in regional tournaments and win enough fights to advance. The opposition is fierce, and high-quality amateur boxers compete for top prizes worldwide.

Training and Preparation for Amateur Boxing

Training and preparation are essential for achievement in amateur boxing. Amateur boxers have excellent physical condition and great stamina. They also need to be mentally tough and capable of handling the pressure of the competition. Training for amateur boxers normally involves a combination of cardio, strength training, and boxing drills. Boxers can also run, jump rope, lift weights, and do different sporting exercises to improve their energy and strength. They also work on their boxing method, sparring with other boxers and practicing their actions.

Amateur boxers ought to also follow a strict diet to hold their weight and stay in form. They commonly consume a diet rich in protein and have low constituents of carbohydrates and fats. They may additionally take supplements to help them get over their workouts and live healthily.

Qualification of Amateur Boxers for National and Worldwide Competitions

Qualifying for country-wide and international competitions is a challenging phase. Amateur boxers must compete in regional tournaments and win enough fights to advance. The top amateur boxer from each location competes in country-wide tournaments, where they need to win more fights to advance.

Then the best amateur boxers from each country compete in international tournaments, which include the Olympic Games or the World Championships. These tournaments are highly competitive, and the best boxers nationwide fight for the top prizes. Getting a medal at an international boxing competition is a great success for an amateur boxer. It can open doorways to professional opportunities and provide a platform for future achievement.

The Transition from Amateur to Pro Boxing

Transitioning from amateur to pro boxing is a significant step for any boxer. Professional boxing differs from amateur boxing, and the transition can be challenging. To become a professional boxer, an amateur must obtain a professional boxing license. They must also find a promoter to help them secure fights and build their careers.

Keyshawn Davis

source - https://olympics.nbcsports.com/2021/06/07/keyshawn-davis-boxing-olympic-team-pros/

Once they have turned pro, boxers must start building their reputation and winning fights. They must also start promoting themselves and their brand, attending press conferences and interviews to gain media exposure. Although it might be challenging to transition from amateur to pro boxing, it is an essential step for those who want to make a career out of boxing.

Promoting a Pro Boxing Career

Promoting a pro boxing profession is critical for success in the game. Boxers should build their brand and goodwill by attending press meetings and interviews to gain media publicity. They need to additionally hold a strong social media presence, engaging with their fans and promoting their fights.

Boxers must also be strategic about the fights they take. They must choose opponents who will assist them in building their popularity and winning titles. They must also be ready to take threats and face tougher opponents as they progress in their careers.

Maintaining a Successful Pro Boxing Career

Maintaining a successful seasoned boxing career calls for hard work and dedication. Boxers should continue improving their skills, even not within the ring. They must additionally manage their finances cautiously and invest in their future.

Boxers need to put themselves together for setbacks and defeats. They should learn from their mistakes and undertake them as motivation for improvement. They should also be willing to adapt their approach and method as they progress in their careers.

man standing and walking going on boxing ring surrounded with people

source - https://unsplash.com/photos/ig7vN6OkGNE

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FAQs

How to become a boxer?

Before becoming a professional boxer, you must have to become an amateur boxer. For this, you have to find the right coach and undergo training. Also, you need to participate in the fights.

For how many hours does a boxer train himself in a day?

To prepare themselves for a fight, boxers generally undergo 5-6 hours of training. 

How many years an amateur boxer needs to become a pro?

To become a professional boxer, an individual needs at least 4-5 years. It is because before becoming a professional, he must become an amateur boxer.

Conclusion

The journey of boxers is a long and challenging one. From the early days of training in local gyms to the excitement of amateur competitions and the intense pressure of professional bouts, boxers must work hard to achieve their goals. So, if you are an amateur boxer looking to turn pro or want to start a career in boxing, understanding the journey of boxers in boxing can provide insight into this incredible sport.