Kimbo boxing debut delayed until who knows when
Kimbo Slice’s ballyhooed jump from mixed martial arts to professional boxing will be delayed until at least early next year,…
Kimbo Slice’s ballyhooed jump from mixed martial arts to professional boxing will be delayed until at least early next year, promoter Gary Shaw told ESPN.com on Wednesday night.
“Right now he’s vacationing in Florida. He went home for Thanksgiving. His pro debut will be put off until at least the beginning of next year. He needs more work and more sparring.”
“I had him in California sparring and in real training with (boxing trainer Clemente) Medina and (S&C coach Darryl) Hudson. He was given all the tools, but he continues to get offers from MMA and offers to be in movies and it’s hard to keep him focused on training camp. That’s the story more than anything else.”
“I’m hoping he will turn pro. People of all ages recognize him, so when you’re with him it’s like you are with a huge star, but he’s never been in a boxing ring for a real fight.
“It’s like with Mike Tyson and Manny Pacquiao — when they walk into a room, they own the room. When Kimbo walks into a room, Kimbo owns the room and it’s all about Kimbo.
“When everyone recognizes you and you believe you are a huge star, and you get all of these offers, it’s hard to go to a gym and work like you’re a rookie. But he’s coming back to California to train after the holidays. Hopefully, he means after the Thanksgiving holiday.”