March 2022 Volume 4, Issue 11
Local boxer has eyes on gold
This spring, local boxer Alex Mazzarisi of Sterling has his sights on gold at the upcoming Golden Gloves boxing tournament in Cicero, IL. The Golden Gloves tournament is the most revered amateur boxing tournament in the United States.
Alex has been boxing since he was eight years old. His coach and father, Steve Mazzarisi, saw Alex’s natural talent for the sport and soon began touring him around the country. By the age of 12, Alex had accumulated 28 fights, including; Jr. Olympic and Silver Gloves champion titles.
After the death of his uncle, Alex decided to take a break from the limelight and focus solely on his education. After completing high school and attending college, Alex decided to focus on training.
“Alex doesn’t smoke, drink, or party,” said Steve Mazzarisi. “He works, eats, and trains. We want Alex to be a world champion.”
“Boxing makes you disciplined, and I hope to go pro in two years,” said Alex.
Alex’s ambitions for gold stretch past the Golden Gloves tournament to the Olympic podium.
“After the Golden Gloves, I plan to go to nationals and get ranked, then hopefully, the Olympics,” said Alex.
The United States National Boxing Championships rank fighters nationally and are a must for Olympic hopefuls. Like so many others, Alex plans to claim the number one spot.
The life of a professional boxer is not an easy one; between time in the ring and physical conditioning, Alex can spend up to five hours a day training. He also works to raise funds for his many travels.
Boxers often visit gyms in other cities to spar with different fighters to improve their skills. Alex regularly travels to Rock Island to spar with 2021 Golden Glove champion Vershaun Lee.
Alex and his father also invite other fighters to train at their home gym, Gladiator Boxing Club in Sterling. Professional boxer Javier Marquina visits Sterling once a week to spar with Alex and sharpen his skills for the upcoming tournament.
“We are like a big family here,” said Steve of Gladiator Boxing. “Everyone likes to help each other out. We are really big on community.”
Tournaments typically involve entry fees, lodging, and travel costs. The life of an up-and-coming champion isn’t cheap. Currently, they are selling homemade lasagna and looking for sponsors for Alex.
“We are always looking for sponsors for Alex as well and appreciate everyone’s support. We know Alex is going to bring the title home this year.”
Those looking to support Alex and other fighters can stop at the Gladiator Boxing Club, located at 1112 West LeFevre Road in Sterling, or contact the club on Facebook.