Coon Rapids, MN- In 2007 Willshaun Boxley made the decision to wrap up his decorated amateur boxing career and become a professional as another form of financial income. His young career has provided him with not only an extra paycheck here and there, but with an entirely new chapter to his story, a story that boxing fans across the world will become familiar with September 18 when he takes on Chris Avalos(11-0, 9 ko’s) on Showbox.
Not even Boxley could have imagined that he would be fighting on national television this early on, something most boxers strive for their entire career. He will be brought in as the opponent for the young knockout artist Avalos, Boxley however claims his 5-1 record can be deceiving. His only loss was a split decision to Thomas Snow, in a tactical matchup this June in Hinckley, MN, a decision that was met with some controversy. As far as September 18 goes, Boxley says he not only plans on shocking the boxing world with a victory, but leaving the outcome away from the judges’ scorecards with a knockout.
“ I’m training my ass off so people can definitely expect the best. I’ll knock him out inside of five.” said the always confident and charismatic Boxley.
Boxley was able to rack up achievements, both local and national throughout his amateur career, but it’s hard to imagine his national television debut doesn’t rank highly among his accomplishments. The early stages of his professional career did not come easily, Boxley’s mother became sick and was forced to move north of the Twin Cities. Willshaun elected to stay in the Cities and further pursue boxing but spent some time staying with friends which made boxing a little more complicated. Willshaun finally decided to give up his dream of boxing in the Olympics, and fight professionally for a living, a decision that is now paying dividends.
On paper, Boxley will be an uncontested underdog when he visits the Chumash Casino in Santa Ynez, California, but he feels like a fighter who fares well when the odds are against him. Boxley’s athleticism and raw ability have even garnered praise from top trainer Roger Mayweather during a visit to Minnesota last winter. Fans who are familiar with Willshaun Boxley’s ability expect fireworks September 18, and fans who have yet to see him perform can expect to remember the name Willshaun Boxley.
Tickets can be found at chumashcasiono.com. Priced at $25, $35, $45, $55, and $65.
For more information on Willshaun Boxley visit soboxing.com