Home Boxing Interviews Ryan “Thunder” Rozicki Discusses Upcoming Pro Debut

Ryan “Thunder” Rozicki Discusses Upcoming Pro Debut

This Saturday, October 15, marks the much anticipated professional debut of heavy-handed Cape Breton heavyweight Ryan “Thunder” Rozicki, ending his successful campaign as an amateur. A National Golden Gloves Champion and long time Nova Scotia provincial champion, Rozicki enters the punch-for-pay game on the upcoming L-Jack Promotions show at the Aitken Centre in Fredericton, New Brunswick. His opponent will be Donald Willis (1-5-0, 1KOs) of Windsor, Ontario. Recently, Rozicki provided the following quotes for the press.

On turning pro:

I fought my way to the Olympic qualifiers and lost to the three time Canadian champ on a close decision. I figure I have enough experience now to make the move and I think my style is more suited for the pros.

On the benefits of an amateur pedigree:

I think it will make a big difference. As a amateur I fought eight national champions and the best that was out there, including Simon Kean and Dawson Gibson. I took on all the top guys. Sharing the ring with tough, very talented fighters in the amateurs will help me in the pros.

On Donald Willis:

I think Donald is a very good fighter and from what I’ve seen on tapes I think he’s coming to win and knock my head off. He has power, more experience as a pro, and a good 50lb weight advantage. But I come to win and I’ll give him his toughest challenge yet. At the same time, I’m pretty excited to share the ring with such a experienced pro and I respect him and his power.

On his goals as a fighter:

My end goal as a fighter is to be known as someone who fought the best and never turned down a challenge. I’ll always show up and leave it all in the ring. I consider myself a throwback fighter. I’ve styled myself after Rocky Marciano and Carmen Basilio. Guys like that. I’m not focused on being the best, just the best I can be and becoming a champion here in Canada. I want to be someone that kids from my hometown in Cape Breton can look up to.

General admission tickets can be purchased by calling 506-453-5054. For tables, please call 506-999-0078. The doors open at 6:00 PM, with the first bell sounding at 7:30 PM.