Twenty-year-old light welterweight professional boxer Mike "Yes Indeed" Reed impressed the local boxing community in 2013 with his speed, strength, and boxing pedigree. Born in Washington, D.C., Reed currently trains in Clinton, Maryland, at Dream Team Boxing Gym, which is owned and operated by his father, Michael "Buck" Pinson. Reed went undefeated in 2013, and his pro record currently stands at 6-0, with 4 knockouts.
Mike Reed discussed his first year as a pro boxer. He said, "Last year, I did a great job of dictating the pace in my fights and thought I showed good ring generalship. My training and conditioning allowed me to perform well in my fights, so I definitely want to keep that going. I'm happy that I stayed busy in my first year as a pro. Thank you to both Keystone Boxing and Top Flight Productions for letting me showcase my talents on their boxing cards in 2013. I am working hard to build a solid fan base, and very thankful for the way my supporters have come out to watch me fight."
Coach Michael Pinson, who serves as Reed's trainer and manager, was also pleased with the progress made during last year. He said, "2013 was a good year, as we were able to get six bouts to build from. So far, Mike's fights have all been great learning experiences. Several opponents were tough and came to win. I didn't want easy fights in his first year as a pro, because you can't learn from those. Transitioning from an amateur to a professional boxer can be very difficult. Mike handled it well."
Reed mentioned some of his plans for the upcoming year. "In 2014, I want to continue with the same work ethic that brought me success last year. I will continue to listen to my father and my team, who always have my best interest at heart. It would be great to fight on some nationally televised cards, so that more people can see me fight. I would also like to continue my college education, do more charity work for my community, and continue to improve on being a good person. I'm frequently asked about which weight class I am best suited for. I can make 135 pounds, but I'm also comfortable fighting at 140 pounds. My team will make the right decision on that issue when the time is right."
Coach Pinson agreed that the team was successful this year, but added, "There is room for improvement in 2014. It is important that Mike learns how to sit down on his punches, move his head more, work from different angles, and use his speed properly. I'd like to see Mike fight eight times this year. If he continues to impress everyone with his performances, he will earn a solid ranking from a major sanctioning organization."
Mike Reed remains unsigned and returns to the ring on Friday night, January 17, 2014, against Jorge Marquez (Phoenix, AZ/pro record: 4-1-0, w/ 2 KOs). Reed-Marquez is scheduled as a six-round bout, which will headline the Keystone Boxing card at Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, Maryland.
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