(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 accidentally 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
