Boxing

Interview: Frankie Sanchez

by Aaron Weissenfluh

18.08 - This past weekend, I caught up with Frankie Sanchez, a Colorado native and professional boxer. He is preparing for his twenty-first fight where he will be featured on a pay per view event on the under card of Laila Ali vs. Christy Martin against the undefeated Chris Smith of New York. With a record of 13 and 6 with 7 wins by way of knock out, this 5' 5" welterweight would appear as anything but dominant in his division. However, in talking with Frankie and looking through his history, you'll find that this warrior is a true champion at heart.

Boxing is not the only sport where this young man at the age of 31 years has excelled. He was a high school standout in wrestling, placing 2nd in the Colorado 6A state championships. From there, he completed his degree at Adams State competing on the NCAA level for several years in wrestling. He also earned 6 Colorado Golden Gloves State Championships along with 2 Regional Championships in boxing. He is a 2 Time Regional Junior Olympic boxing champion while winning the state title 2 times. He has won titles in Ultimate Fighting all the while competing in Judo and Kickboxing.

Frankie completed a bachelor's degree in history & government and is currently pursuing a master's degree in counseling. He is a generous soul that continues to give back to his community through service, education, fund-raising and leading by example. He has taught and lectured around the world. While this weekend's fight could act as a hinge fight that could either propel him towards a world championship bout or put him into the relative obscurity of the sport, he will continue to be a standout among Colorado fighters and educators. He is one of the most eloquent and intelligent fighters that you will ever meet. He trains and lives in Colorado and provides training for all those interested in excelling at the Extreme Fighting Academy in Fort Garland, Colorado.

Incidentally, he was the last man to spar with all-time boxing great Roberto Duran.

AW: In preparing for this fight with a guy who has won his last three fights via TKO, what have you done different?

FS: I don't know much about Chris Smith. We've heard that he is similar in height and style to Kermit Cintron who I fought previously. My plan, like always, is to get the inside game going and keep the pressure on. I've seen no tapes of him.

AW: Since fighting your last fight at 154, how is the weight so far?

FS: The weight is great. Right now, I'm walking around at about 2 pounds over (the 147lb welterweight limit). It feels great; this is the lightest I've ever been for a pro fight.

AW: Since this is for the NABA title, do you view this fight as a stepping stone on your way to a possible world title challenge?

FS: Winning any belt is a serious thing. Winning this belt would be dream for me. It's one of my ultimate goals and sure it will help me get a shot, but I'm focusing on winning this belt right now.

AW: What are your long-term plans in terms of fighting and at age 31, how much longer do you plan on boxing?

FS: As you know, I had ten years off from boxing while pursuing my education. I think the age of 35 would be a good time to stop. While I'm in, I'd like win what I can and make the money that I can. After that, I'll always have teaching to fall back.

AW: Overall, how would you rate this training camp in contrast to past camps?

FS: This has been the best camp ever. For the past three camps I've been training with Juan Diaz. As the number one sparring partner, you're training him, so this camp has been great. I've been training in San Diego with Tony Palafox. I've been sparring with taller guys including a 190lb ultimate fighter from Lebanon. I've been working extra hard out here in San Diego since the elevation is different from Denver.

AW: Anything you want to tell your fans in Denver and around the world?

FS: Just keep the faith alive and keep supporting your local fighters. All the support is greatly appreciated.

0 comments
 


Bookmark and Share

 

If you detect any issues with the legality of this site, problems are always unintentional and will be corrected with notification.
The views and opinions of all writers expressed on eastsideboxing.com do not necessarily state or reflect those of the Management.
Copyright © 2001- 2015 East Side Boxing.com - Privacy Policy