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Exclusive Interview: Chris “The Mechanic” Smith.

ByKatrina Walters

Continuing to Build the Boxer Within.

Sometimes it takes self-examination/self-evaluation to build a superior athlete and a better person, such is the case for Chris “The Mechanic” Smith. I sat and spoke candidly with the NABA welterweight champion about the obstacles and hurdles he faced to get to where he is today in his boxing career. When I asked about the current

progress of his career, he put it to me plainly, “boxing is not a sprint, it’s a marathon.” Those are true words to live by for boxing and for everyday life. For this young fighter, working hard comes naturally. Just last year alone he juggled two careers at the same time. Attending classes at York College for business and working full time at his career at being a professional fighter were just a few of the many things this talented welterweight was capable of performing. There was even a point in Chris’ career when he had to leave a fight and get ready for his job the next morning, swollen hands and all.

Hard work is never easy, but it eventually pays off! On January 21, 2005, “The Mechanic” will be facing David Estrada in a welterweight elimination bout for the number two spot in the division, which now hosts an array of talented fighters. Oscar de la Hoya and Shane Mosley are just a couple of possible opponents for this young rising star. When asked about the possibility of facing a close friend in number one contender Zab “Super” Judah, he simply stated, “it would be a difficult position to be in, but this is the boxing business.

“Looking toward the future in his upcoming match against David Estrada, Mr. Smith declares, “I feel good, I feel confident, and there is no question that I will walk away with the USBA title. It’s a dream come true and I feel blessed to be in the position that I’m in,” and in closing, Chris would like to say to fight fans, “stay tuned to Showtime on Jan 21.2005, from future world champ Chris Smith, Happy New Year to everyone!”

Katrina Walters can be reached at wsteve555@aol.com