The Brooklyn-based boxer had the fastest knockout in GLORY Kickboxing history (welterweight) in a debut bout. I sat down with Levine to discuss his career and where he sees boxing going.
McElwain: How does it feel to have the fastest KO in GLORY Welterweight debut history?
Levine: Having the fastest KO in GLORY welterweight history (as a debut) solidified my belief that I belong with the best in the world. Despite my unassuming record, I knew I had what it takes to compete at a high level. Going into my GLORY debut and making a statement like that just proved me correct.
McElwain: What is your advice to anyone trying to get into sports?
Levine: Anyone looking to get into sports should know that skills are not the only determining success factor. What separates the good athletes from the great is discipline, work ethic, and preparation. You have to be hard-nosed and believe in yourself. Your skill will only take you so far in sports, and the next level requires so much more of the intangibles.
McElwain: Who is your boxing idol and why?
Levine: I wouldn’t say I have an idol. It’s more of a list of people I genuinely admire and try to emulate in some way. Several of those boxers are Mike Tyson, Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker, Vasily Lomachenko, Arturo Gatti, and, of course, Ali!
McElwain: Jake Paul has been making a name for himself in the world of boxing recently. What are your views on him?
Levine: This is an unpopular opinion: I like Jake Paul! I think we hold him to the level of the elite because of the money he is making. However, looking across the rankings at pros who have the same record, he is leaps and bounds ahead of most of them skill-wise. I’m not sure where his career is headed, but if he stays focused and truly dedicates himself to the sport, he can make some nice accomplishments.
McElwain: Who do you want to face in the ring next?
Levine: I truthfully do not have any specific names in mind. I am currently signed with Karate Combat, and I am unfamiliar with many fighters on the roster. However, my goal is to compete against the best in the world and become a champion. I do not doubt that my upcoming events will test me more than ever, but I am more than ready for the challenge!
McElwain: When you hang up your boxing gloves, do you see yourself coaching?
Levine: I coach now. I work with fighters in our gym here in Rhode Island, PRIDE Martial Arts. Although, yes, when I am finished with my professional career, I would like to dedicate more time to coaching the next generation of athletes and do that from our gym.
McElwain: Where do you see yourself in 30 years?
Levine: In 30 years, I will be 64 years old. I better be finished competing! I see myself with a beautiful family, still working as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (as I am now), and running a successful martial arts/kickboxing gym.
McElwain: Describe boxing in one word.
Levine: “Beautiful”
