Heather Hutchins was kind enough to answer a few questions for The League before her pro debut tonight in Canada.

Heather Hutchins (right)

M…. What sparked your interest in boxing?

Hutchins…. In 2002, I had a friend in the police reserves that was also a kickboxing instructor. I was looking for an inexpensive way to lose weight, relieve stress and gain self-confidence. So, I gave it a try and I guess you could say I’ve been “hooked” ever since.

 
M…. How long have you been training?

Hutchins…. My USA Boxing book says my first fight was back in 2003, so probably right around then. Although, I’ve had to take time off from it here and there, the longest stretch being almost 2 years just recently. That was due to a tremendous amount of personal, legal and financial stress. 

 
M….  This Friday in Canada will be your pro debut, what made you decide now was the right time to make that step?

Hutchins…. Why not? I’ve wanted this opportunity ever since winning multiple state and regional championships and earning a bronze medal at Nationals in 2005. I remember saying then that you’d see me in the professional boxing circuit someday. Just because I fell on some hard times between then and now doesn’t mean I’m not ready. In fact, it’s driven me more. Along with proving this to myself, I feel a need to prove to everyone and everything that tried to stand in my way that they didn’t win. I came back stronger and better because of it.
 
 
M…. Who is your primary trainer? Will they be in your corner on the 12th?

Hutchins…. John Hoffman is my trainer and manager. Yes, of course he’ll be in my corner this Friday. He got me the fight and he has more than prepared me for it. I am so grateful to him and his family for all they’ve done to help me with this.
 
 
M….  How would you describe your boxing style?

Hutchins…. I come to fight, give it all I got and ultimately be the one that wins in the end. John’s helped me correct a lot of bad habits I had and improve on my strengths at the same time. My style is to keep coming at you, not back down until either you’re down or the ref steps in. That part hasn’t changed.

 
M…. Your opponent is also making her pro debut, do you know anything about her?

Heather Hutchins (left)

Hutchins….

I know her name, that she has about the same amount of amateur experience as me and that it’s also her pro debut. That’s all I need to know really. We’ll figure the rest out in the ring on Friday.

 
M…. What are your goals in boxing?

Hutchins…. My goal right now is to turn professional. After that, I’ll make a new goal.

 
M…. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Hutchins…. One of the many things I’ve learned from all of this is never take anything for granted, believe in yourself and go for it no matter what people tell you. If you don’t like what people are telling you and it doesn’t feel right, trust that instinct and find a better crowd. What you get is what you got and you only get one chance. It’s all up to you. Thanks to everyone that helped me get here.