On Saturday, June 25, Joey Alday Jr. will make his professional boxing debut at The Bomb Factory in Dallas, Texas. Alday has had a decorated amateur career with over 200 wins and just 25 losses to his name.
On Saturday he’ll look to continue his winning tradition with a win over opponent Justin Henderson in front of a mostly hometown crowd filled with family and friends.
For some fighters, the transition to professional boxing doesn’t come with ease. There’s a class of just a few that defy the odds and make a name for themselves. For Top Rank’s newest addition Alday, the change in gears is just another step towards his ultimate goal of becoming a world champion.
“I’m not nervous about the change of pace. If anything I’m excited. I want to go out and impress everyone at my first fight,” said an exhilarated Alday.
“It’s different. With being pro everything is a little different. In the amateurs you can just go into a fight score your points, go in and out, and so on. Now I have to have a game plan for training camp, I have to mix things up in the ring, and be a ring general.”
Alday brings a lot of experience going into his pro debut and has had the privilege of training with some noteworthy names such as Shawn Porter, Errol Spence and Miguel Cotto to name a few.
The 22-year-old prospect also plans on staying as active as possible throughout the start of his pro career.
“I want to fight as much as I can this year and try to stay active as much as possible,” said Alday.
With the coaching and training of father Joe Alday Sr., the duo will take their partnership on to the highest level the sport. Alday Sr. has been in the corner for his son since day one and the relationship has blossomed personally and professionally.
“Joey has always done everything I’ve asked him to do. I know exactly how much to push him and I have always been behind him for every decision,” said Alday Sr.
Saturday night, Alday will be fighting alongside the likes of veteran fighters Brian Vera and Mike Alvarado–who takes on former United States Jr. Welterweight champion, Josh Torres (15-4-2, 7 KOs).
Also featured on the card is two-time Russian Olympian Matt Korobov as well as fellow Top Rank prospect Eric De Leon. All bouts are part of UniMas’ Solo Boxeo fight card.
When asked about what he expects the night of the fight, Alday responded with excitement. “You know, I’m just looking to come out and knock this guy out. Maybe not in the first, but I definitely want to give the people a great show,” said Alday.
Whatever the case may be, Alday will definitely look to make a statement at The Bomb Factory and it’ll be a complete card that any boxing fan can enjoy.
Photo by Porfirio Barron Jr.
