Local boxer Tony Corrales will fight his last amateur fight this
weekend before making the transition to the professional ranks
HOLLISTER
When an amateur boxer turns pro, there can be a tendency to fall flat from the start. The promise of money and earnings is understandably tied to the professional label, but the transition itself – the move from amateur to pro – is perhaps greater in boxing than in any other sport, and that must be made before anyone gets paid.
Hollister resident Tony Corrales will shortly begin his transition. The 18-year-old fighter will compete for the final time as an amateur this weekend before turning pro, and he’s fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead.
Having amassed an impressive 43-12 record over seven years in the amateur ranks, Corrales, who just last year qualified to the National Golden Gloves Championships in Michigan, is expecting a few heavy blows early on as a pro.
“Boxing is gonna be my career,” he said. “It’s gonna be tough because I have a lot of friends. I like to have fun. But I’ve got to realize that my job is my job and I’ve got to do what I’ve got to do.
“I’m guessing my first fight, it’s gonna get me sore. But I’ll get used to it like everybody else.”
One Last Fight
A 12-bout boxing show, hosted by Zeke Lopez and the Bulldog Boxing Gym, is scheduled for Saturday at the Hollister Armory.
Doors open at 1 p.m., with the smoker event slated for 2 p.m. Tickets cost $20 at the door, but can also be purchased in advance for $15 at Family Tree.
Read the full story in Friday’s edition of The Weekend Pinnacle.
