Sept. 27th, 2007
By Jesse Kelley
28 year old Corey Rodriguez will take the leap to the professional boxing ranks this Saturday in Bowler, WI. Rodriquez is one of many Minnesota amateur stars to make that decision recently.
Rodriquez, who comes from a boxing family says that he has already begun to make changes he feels are necessary to compete at the next level.
“My style has always been more of a professional style” said Rodriguez during his workout at the Uppercut Gym on Thursday night.” I also know that you have to make certain adjustments when you turn pro. I have always been a good boxer but we have really been working on my power for the pros.”
That new found power was already evident as Rodriquez hit the pads with long time trainer Ray Nelson on during our interview.
Corey Rodriguez was kind enough to share his thoughts with MinnesotaBoxing.com during his final workout before his long awaited pro debut. Here is what he had to say..
Who are the people involved in the Rodriguez camp?
My father/trainer and manager John Rodriguez who competed and was a former Upper Midwest Golden Glove runner-up and has been involved with the “sweet science” for 35 years. My other trainer is former 1963 Flyweight Upper Midwest Golden Glove champion Ray Nelson. John Rodriguez Jr. a 1998 Graduate from the University of Minnesota Duluth, an all around athlete in the sport of football, baseball, wrestling, and basketball. Nutritionist Justin Hagen who is also currently working with future MMA star Roger Huerta. Sports therapist Rachel Schley who is an all around knowledgeable person in sports nutrition, therapy, and conditioning. She also does work with Phil Williams, and Wilton Hilario.
What are your expectations as a professional boxer?
I have a passion for the art of boxing. I’ve been fighting in the amateurs for about 8 years, and have had some great success. As a professional boxer I expect to continue that success. I expect boxers to challenge me and except those challenges only stepping up to another level with each fight.
What do you feel you have to prove?
As many people know amateur boxing just isn’t the same as what it use to be. Coming back to boxing after an 8 year layoff has been difficult in the sense that amateur scoring has changed. I have adjusted, but lost fights that I would have normally won with the 10 point must system. I strongly believe that professional boxing and the scoring system will agree with my boxing style.
Are you excited to be apart of Minnesota professional boxing?
Yes, being here in Minnesota and being apart of this boxing community is a wonderful thing. I would like to box in Minnesota as often as possible. As a matter of fact I believe that a fight is in the works at the Myth nightclub on November 1st with Seconds Out promotions.
What are your expectations in the opponents you will be facing?
Well judging from what I have seen in the past, I do not expect, nor do I want to be fed “cupcakes.” I don’t expect to learn or improve my boxing skills by fighting “MMA guys.” Don’t get me wrong, they are great at what they do, however MMA fighting and boxing are two completely different sports. I expect my competition to be tuff, and I will train accordingly.
What will make you different than other boxers here in Minnesota?
I’m hungry! I’m always up to a challenge, and when it comes time to rising to the occasion, people will be on the edge of their seats, and I will be there to finish and complete the job.
What do you have to offer the world in the sport of professional boxing?
My motivation and strength. I will compete to the highest level achievable.
Do you want to compete on a statewide level or world wide level?
Minnesota is my home…well for now anyway. If there is going to be some difficulty with promoters, matchmakers, or our commission then I don’t have time for that. I might end up making Chicago my hometown. It just depends on who is willing to work with us. Eventually I would like to be on a world wide competitive level.
Give us names of boxers that you would like to fight.
I don’t have anyone that I’m particularly naming, except those who call me out. I do remember of an instance when Johnny Johnson wanted me to fight his son, Jon Laboda. I would definitely take the fight, but not at 156lbs. I’d accept the offer at 147lbs. And if the money was right. Matter of fact, make it a 6 round fight vs. Laboda!
What are some Nationally recognized names you have boxed at the amateur level.
I fought Anthony Hanshaw (21-1) who recently had a title fight with Roy Jones Jr. on July 14th for the vacant IBC light heavyweight title. I fought Mark Saurez (25-3) who recently fought Kermit Cintron for the vacant IBF welterweight title. I’ve fought younger opponents (top amateur’s around the country) like Luis Arias, Murray Cunningham, Javontae Starks, Danny O’Conner and Charles Hatley. I’ve fought opponents from Canada, to Mexico, to England.
Besides boxing how do you make a living?
I work for an electronics corporation as a Test Engineer. I don’t hurt for money, but one thing is for sure “I don’t fight for free!” and I also “Don’t fight for tickets!” Take note promoters, do your job, because I’ve got plenty on my plate.
What are some things that you do besides boxing, training, and work?
Well that is pretty much my routine everyday. Wake up, run, or do a light exercise to get the blood pumpin, go to work for 8 to 11 hours, come home and play with my kids Poncho, and Ariela. Then I go to the gym, run, have a light dinner, play with my kids again, and go to bed. Sunday is a day for rest, and a day with the Rodriguez family.
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