(SEPT 16) Over the years, I've read many retirement letters posted on WBAN. I've often thought of this day when I would sit down to write one for myself. Well, this day has come. I've waited for my heart to be in the condition it's in. That's how I know it's time.

Many retirement letters from my fighting colleagues sound a lot alike because most of us feel the same way. We feel like we have "unfinished business" and that we'd like to "avenge a loss" or take "one more shot at a world title." I certainly feel these things also. My last fight was a year ago in Costa Rica. Like many of my fights, I am disappointed at the outcome (well, disappointed with MY performance rather) but enjoyed the experience and looked for the good in the situation. Being a pro fighter has opened up a lot of opportunity for me over the years like representing the United States as the first female to fight for a world title in China (Aug '05) and being the boxing coach on MTV's "MADE" (July '06) which moved me to New York City. I was then chosen as "New York's Best Trainer" for Allure Magazine (Jan '08). In March '08, I stepped into the ring at Madison Square Garden (an honor not bestowed upon many fighters) and was able to check that off my list of boxing dreams. Although I've had the privilege of training celebrities at high-end gyms in Manhattan, my fondest memories are getting down and dirty at Gleason's Gym in Brooklyn. Countless hours; countless rounds; countless times accidently leaving my mouthpiece on the side of the ring. Melissa Hernandez taught me to be myself while boxing and do whatever I need to do to relax (like my trademark singing between rounds). Half of my fights haven't ended in my favor but I've always made the most of the situation.

And that would sum up my boxing--and my life--"making the most of any situation."

I'm happy to report that my life has taken me to a happier place that I ever imagined possible. In April, I moved from New York to Idaho to go to nursing school at Boise State University and get my RN/BSN. In the process, I have fallen head over heels for the most incredible man ever of whom respects and appreciates my career but sees past "CODE RED" and has fallen in love with "Cristy." We'll be married in November. Upon graduation, I will specialize in diabetic education and remain an expert in the fitness world as a strength and conditioning coach, boxing trainer, spinning instructor, conduct boot camps, etc... and continue to help change lives through nutrition, exercise and good life decisions. "In Your Face Fitness" will continue to grow and develop as I add to my resume. My new husband and I will live in Boise, Idaho and will be starting a family within the next couple of years. The strength it took to get me through 14 pro fights will come in handy when taking on the world of health and wellness, marriage and family.

I have so many things to be thankful for including retiring from boxing without injuries or bodily damage. But more than that, I'm thankful for what boxing has taught me and made me and I'm thankful for the friendships I've made. Thank you, Sue, for always supporting me and being there for our sport. I will continue to stay in the loop of women's boxing and support you all any way I can. Good luck, ladies.


Cristy "CODE RED" Nickel
www.cristynickel.com