Tiffanie Ward: Exclusive One on One Interview – by Blanca Gutierrez

(SEPT 25)  This week I got an opportunity to interview a new professional boxer on the scene, Tiffanie Ward.  Ward just recently fought Maricelo Carnejo, winning that fight by a four-round unanimous decision.

Blanca: When did you get into boxing? How old were you? and why boxing?

Tiffanie: I started boxing at age 22, I’m 29 now. Played basketball in college but suffered two back to back knee surgeries on the same knee in the same year which ended my basketball career. Really out of  nowhere,  I decided I wanted to take boxing lessons and the day after my 22nd birthday,  I began boxing.  Boxing was completely new for me.  Tthe challenge, work and discipline required really captivated me.    I couldn’t get enough of it. Having my basketball career end so suddenly, most people would accept it and move on with life, it was a blessing for me to be able to transition into another sport that I could see myself grow in. I was excited to go to the gym and learn and see myself get better day by day.

Blanca: As an amateur you have about 25-29 bouts through USA BOXING. You even participated in the Olympic Trials. Can you tell me some of your biggest accomplishments as an amateur?

Tiffanie:  My biggest accomplishment was competing in the trials. I was hesitant to even move up in weight for the opportunity, but it was a great experience to be part of women’s boxing history. My biggest moment in boxing was meeting my husband… Life changing 🙂

Blanca:  With the Olympics right around the corner, Why did you finally decide to join the professional ranks?

Tiffanie: When I started out I didn’t really have a strong desire or understand the benefit to having a lengthy amateur career, I always wanted to turn professional. The Olympics being an option for the first time ever and me still being an amateur fighter at that time, yeah, that makes sense why not go for it. After the Olympic trials,  I decided to move forward with turning pro—my original goal.   I’m married and eventually want to start a family.   I certainly don’t want to put my life on hold for the 2016 games. Realistically boxing will always be a part of me but there other things that I want out of life. My calling is not limited to just boxing.

Blanca:  Many female boxers have full time jobs, some have families and still have time to train. Do you work full time? How often do you train? Do you have a hectic training schedule?

Tiffanie:  It’s not easy being in the sport of boxing it demands your time, energy and attention daily, there is no off season like basketball. I work full-time and train full-time and would use my vacation time at work to attend the amateur tournaments. There’s a lot of sacrifice involved but rewarding at the same time because you truly get out what you put in. Training 6 days a week, cardio daily, most people think you’re crazy but I guess it’s not meant for everyone to understand.

Blanca: After not boxing since the trials, how did you feel going into this pro debut?

Tiffanie: Well my experience showed. It’s been almost two years since I’ve fought.  Of course there were nerves heading into unfamiliar territory, but I know who I am as a fighter.    I know the work I put in and the experience I have on my side. After the bell rang it was on and I settled in real quick.

Blanca:  According to Eastside boxing article and a press release from Combined Artist studio, this fight was for a Boxing Illustrated title. Did you know that a title was on the line for your pro debut?

Tiffanie:  Not a clue and it sure wasn’t announced after I won. I think it’s all a little premature to be having “titles” on the line, no? But,  I greatly appreciate the award.

Blanca: According to some members in the audience, at the end of the four round bout there was no title belt and no mention of it. Did you get the Boxing Illustrated Belt?

Tiffanie:  I haven’t received anything yet but was told they’re doing the engravings and will send it to me soon.