Welterweight Richie Nieves talks about his pro debut which was a four round draw with Latwon Halsey as part of the Telefutura televised card that took place last Friday at The Paradise Theater in the Bronx, New York
How did you feel about your pro debut fight?
Well i think in all the debut went good. It was a big card televised and everything couldn’t ask for more. (Except the win.lol)
How would you grade your performance that night?
From 1 to 10 being highest i would say 2
What are your thoughts about your decision; do you feel you should have won?
I thought i won but i made alot of mistakes so i think its a better learning experience having got the draw. When i was walking threw the crowd they all thought i won too.
What was the biggest thing that surprised you about this fight?
The biggest surprise is the amount of heabuttts other than that nothing really.
What does it mean to you to have a good fan base?
Well i think your fan base is everything when people are excited to see you fight and will travel where ever you are to see you it makes you fight that much harder for them. It also gets the promoters eyes on you.
Tell us how you started in boxing. What boxers were influences ?
One day my cousin Vinny brought me to a boxing gym with him to train. I remember getting my ass kicked when i jumped in there and thought i could beat anyone up. Ever since that day i’ve been hooked.
The boxers that have taught me alot about this business are Tommy Rainone, Anuedi Santos,Kevin Collins,Scott lopeck, Jake Rodriguez and Paulie Malignaggi. My favorite boxers is probably Julio Cesar Chavez and Salvador Sanchez
Where do you train and who is part of your team?
I train out of Westbury boxing Club. Jesus Rivera and Jorge Gellardo are my coaches. Tommy Rainone is my manager.
What was your amateur record?
As an amateur i had over 20 fight and only lost 6 times.
What do you like to do when you’re not training?
When i’m not training i like to spend time with my family and just relax at home. My friends make fun of me for that cause when i get the chance to hangout i rather stay at home.lol
When can we expect you back in the ring?
You can expect me back in the ring as soon as i get the call. I want to be as busy as possible. I’m older than most fighter who start off so i don”t have the luxory of sitting aroung and relaxing.
