Exclusive Boxing Interview: Eddie Irizarry

The bantamweight division has an upcoming force who proved to be competition on Wednesday night at DiBella Entertainment’s Broadway Boxing in New York City.

Eddie Irizarry produced an exciting win over Felix Flores in a six rounder, setting his record to 7-1-(2). Flores was down in the first couple rounds, and Irrizary fought hard to ensure victory.

Irizarry won the 2004 Golden Gloves and has a dream of becoming a champion. This Bronx native credits boxing with saving his life.

SaddoBoxing: How was training for this bout?

Eddie Irizarry: Training was great. I focused a lot on left handed sparring because of Felix Flores. I sparred 30 rounds with left handed guys from Gleason’s Gym.

SB: How is the competition in the bantamweight class?

EI: Well, weight is never an issue for me, so I am always ready. I am always focused and effective with training. There is competition, but like I said I am ready for the challenge.

SB: You fought hard tonight. The crowd saw you gave it your all.

EI: Thank you, thank you. Yeah, I went in there and took everything from training and did my thing.

SB: What is currently next for you?

EI: Maybe the end of September. I aim to stay as busy as possible especially if not injured.

SB: Why did you become a boxer?

EI: Boxing made me the man I am today. I am not ashamed of my past because it brought me here. I did three years in prison. I was confused, ya know? I had no parents, my mother died of cancer, my father was never around and I was in and out of foster care.

Boxing cleaned up my life. I was young, frustrated in and out of prison. I knew that I needed a positive hobby so I went into a boxing gym. I took out my frustrations and left all of my anger in gym. I consider it therapy.

I am proud to be apart of boxing because it saved my life. It gave guys like me a second chance. And I have great support from my trainer, team and manager Ricardo Figueroa of Real Fighters.

SB: What could you fans or viewers look forward to in the ring?

EI: My heart and charisma. I am exciting and I give it my all. I’m happy to be a part of this sport.

© Ginamarie Russo / Saddo Boxing