Boxing is a staple of junior Ethan Payne’s high school life. Through the highs and lows, he stays true to the art of boxing and puts in the hard work necessary to succeed in his sport. Long hours of training give way to success. Payne is no stranger to succeeding and is about to get a taste of his first pro boxing match  . 

“You have these 14 ounce gloves and headgear as an amateur,” Payne said. “When you get hit you don’t really feel it, but with 10 ounce gloves, getting hit in the nose is gonna hurt.”

Before Payne was able to make it professionally, he had to constantly train and continue to learn. His brother introduced him to the world of boxing. He paved the way for his younger brother to make strides and advance his craft.

“My older brother was actually the one to get me started in boxing.” Payne said. “His coach came up to me seeing my power and started working with me”

Just because Payne had an outlet for his coach to find him doesn’t mean that he hasn’t been through struggles. Only two fights in he got injured which sidelined him making him unable to fight.  

“I was in training camp and I got a concussion,” Payne said. “I had to pull out of the fight.”

To keep Payne healthy and on the right track to recovery, his coach created a detailed plan for his training methods. To achieve a healthy recovery, he commits to his plan consistently. 

“From 6-6:30 a.m. he does a morning run and from 2-5 p.m.is bag work and conditioning.” Payne’s trainor said. “Then from 5-6 p.m. it is sparing, and at 6:30 p.m. is his post workout meal and strategy with me.”

Payne and his trainer have an articulate plan for his success in the ring. They have the schedule down to a tee.

“Monday is a rest day and I do ice baths and everything on Wednesday,” Payne said. “We do as many protocols as possible to make sure that I am healthy.”

Payne uses all of his protocols to aid in his performance. Whether it is recovery ice baths and meals, or protection with headgear during sparring, he allows himself the best chance at success, by becoming a stronger, faster, and leaner fighter.