Kyle Cusick is a Top-200 American pro welterweight boxer.
Cusick and I discussed his views on boxing and his career, and here’s what I learned.
McElwain: Who are your boxing influences?
Cusick: Two names immediately come to mind – Marvin Hagler and Micky Ward. These two profoundly impacted my love for the sport and my approach to boxing. Marvin Hagler is, in my eyes, the embodiment of dedication and determination. His relentless work ethic and focus inside the ring have always been a source of inspiration, and his ability to adapt to different styles and his incredible endurance in long fights taught me the importance of discipline and conditioning. He fought everybody and, in my eyes, beat everybody, including Sugar Ray; and he’s also one of our own as a fighter out of southern New England. (I’m from Fall River, Massachusetts). Micky Ward is another big influence. I admire his relentless body punching and ability to overcome adversity in and out of the ring. Ward’s willingness to face tough opponents and reputation for putting on exciting fights taught me how to approach boxing. It is opposite to the “Protect your 0” approach many younger fighters take today.
McElwain: Describe boxing in one word.
Cusick: Pugilistic.
McElwain: Jake Paul is a big name in boxing right now, with seven wins under his belt. What are your views on him?
Cusick: I know Jake Paul is a polarizing figure in boxing. But he built a massive online following and then leveraged that success to engage in high-profile boxing matches. Paul has helped bring new fans to the sport of boxing, and his success has generated significant interest and revenue for him. Most importantly, he has helped lesser-known boxers, including women, gain public attention and earn career-high paydays.
McElwain: What is your advice for anyone wanting to get into boxing?
Cusick: I have a list:
–Find a reputable gym.
–Learn the basics.
–Consistency is everything.
–Listen to your coach.
–Stay humble and learn.
–Embrace the process and the discipline and commitment to self-improvement that comes with it.
McElwain: Finally, who is your dream opponent?
Cusick: Our ultimate opponent is often ourselves. We constantly strive to overcome limitations, doubts, and fears, whether it’s in the boxing ring or any other aspect of life. The biggest battles we face are within. It’s about pushing ourselves to improve, grow, and reach our full potential. So, if I were to pick a dream opponent, it would be the version of myself I aim to become, always pushing to be the best man I can be. However, if you want a boxer’s name, then it would have to be Nico Ali Walsh, the #42-ranked American middleweight, with eight wins, one loss, and one no-contest.
