(SEPT 25) This week I got
an opportunity to interview a new professional boxer on the
scene, Tiffanie Ward. Ward just recently fought Maricelo
Carnejo, winning that fight by a four-round unanimous decision.
Blanca: When did you get into
boxing? How old were you? and why boxing?
Tiffanie:
I started boxing at age 22, I'm 29 now. Played basketball in
college but suffered two back to back knee surgeries on the same
knee in the same year which ended my basketball career. Really
out of nowhere, I decided I wanted to take boxing lessons and
the day after my 22nd birthday, I began boxing. Boxing was
completely new for me. Tthe challenge, work and discipline
required really captivated me. I couldn't get enough of it.
Having my basketball career end so suddenly, most people would
accept it and move on with life, it was a blessing for me to be
able to transition into another sport that I could see myself
grow in. I was excited to go to the gym and learn and see myself
get better day by day.
Blanca:
As an amateur you have about 25-29 bouts through USA BOXING. You
even participated in the Olympic Trials. Can you tell me some of
your biggest accomplishments as an amateur?
Tiffanie:
My biggest accomplishment was competing in the trials. I was
hesitant to even move up in weight for the opportunity, but it
was a great experience to be part of women's boxing history. My
biggest moment in boxing was meeting my husband... Life changing
:)
Blanca:
With the Olympics right around the corner, Why did you finally
decide to join the professional ranks?
Tiffanie:
When I started out I didn't really have a strong desire or
understand the benefit to having a lengthy amateur career, I
always wanted to turn professional. The Olympics being an option
for the first time ever and me still being an amateur fighter at
that time, yeah, that makes sense why not go for it. After the
Olympic trials, I decided to move forward with turning pro---my
original goal. I'm married and eventually want to start a family.
I certainly don't want to put my life on hold for the 2016
games. Realistically boxing will always be a part of me but
there other things that I want out of life. My calling is not
limited to just boxing.
Blanca:
Many female boxers have full time jobs, some have families and
still have time to train. Do you work full time? How often do
you train? Do you have a hectic training schedule?
Tiffanie:
It's not easy being in the sport of boxing it demands your time,
energy and attention daily, there is no off season like
basketball. I work full-time and train full-time and would use
my vacation time at work to attend the amateur tournaments.
There's a lot of sacrifice involved but rewarding at the same
time because you truly get out what you put in. Training 6 days
a week, cardio daily, most people think you’re crazy but I guess
it's not meant for everyone to understand.
Blanca: After not boxing since the trials, how did you feel
going into this pro debut?
Photo by Mike Blair [Full fight
report]
Tiffanie: Well my
experience showed. It's been almost two years since I've fought.
Of course there were nerves heading into unfamiliar territory,
but I know who I am as a fighter. I know the
work I put in and the experience I have on my side. After the
bell rang it was on and I settled in real quick.
Blanca: According to Eastside boxing article and a
press release from Combined Artist studio, this fight was for a
Boxing Illustrated title. Did you know that a title was on the
line for your pro debut?
Tiffanie: Not a clue and it sure wasn't announced
after I won. I think it's all a little premature to be having
"titles" on the line, no? But, I greatly appreciate the
award.
Blanca: According to some members in the audience, at the end
of the four round bout there was no title belt and no mention of
it. Did you get the Boxing Illustrated Belt?
Tiffanie: I haven't received anything yet but was
told they're doing the engravings and will send it to me soon.
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