Nova Scotia Olympic boxer Wyatt Sanford announces he’s going pro
Nova Scotia’s own Wyatt Sanford, the Olympic boxer who made waves last summer in Paris by clinching a spot on the podium, has officially announced his decision to turn professional. The talented athlete, hailing from Kennetcook, N.S., has recently signed with the esteemed Quebec-based promotional company Eye of the Tiger Management.
At just 26 years old, Sanford expressed his admiration for the way Eye of the Tiger Management supports its athletes, emphasizing the importance of having a strong support system in the often cutthroat world of boxing. His bronze win in the 63.5-kilogram weight class at the Olympics marked a significant achievement, making him the first Canadian boxer to secure a medal at the prestigious event since David Defiagbon’s silver win in 1996.
Following his success in Paris, Sanford began contemplating the transition to the professional ranks. The director of recruitment for Eye of the Tiger, Marc Ramsay, lauded Sanford as a recruit with immense potential, highlighting his development within Canada’s amateur boxing system.
As he embarks on this new chapter in his career, Sanford shared his hopes for a hometown fight, expressing a desire to compete in front of a Nova Scotia crowd. While amateur boxers typically participate in tournaments as part of national or international events, professional boxers focus on individual fights to earn money. Sanford acknowledged the difference in training approaches between the two realms, noting the strategic advantage of being able to prepare for specific opponents over an extended period of time.
Although he has yet to schedule any professional fights, Sanford remains optimistic about the future and looks forward to sharing news of upcoming bouts. He mentioned his intention to continue competing in the super lightweight class, with a possibility of dropping down to lightweight. With a strong determination to showcase his skills in his home province, Sanford is eager to bring the excitement of professional boxing to Nova Scotia and hopes to see local support in the arenas.
As he prepares for his pro debut, Sanford’s journey from the amateur ranks to the professional scene serves as a testament to his dedication and passion for the sport. Stay tuned for more updates on his upcoming fights and potential appearances in Halifax as he continues to make waves in the boxing world.
