Born in St Catherine Jamaica I am the second of six kids. My parents separated when I was young so I didn't know who my father was until I was 9 years old. And even then he did not play a role in my life.
Like most kids in Jamaica I was born into a poverty stricken home. I enjoyed playing soccer, cricket and baseball.
My mother worked hard to raise me and my siblings but sometimes there just wasn't enough food to go around.
At 13 years of age I got word that my father wanted me to come live with him in the United States. With the help of my uncle and after a lengthy heart to heart with my mother I said my good byes and with 20 dollars in my pocket I made way to the land of opportunity.
I did not know what to expect because all I knew of my father was that he was not around during my childhood. What I did know was that I wanted to make my mom proud.
Getting adjusted to living in the states was difficult. Physical altercations occurred almost everyday. The kids in school often made fun of me because of my heavy accent. Things at home weren't much better. I argued constantly with my father. He eventually kicked me out of the house. I was homeless in a country I barely knew. For several months I lived on the streets. I slept in dumpsters and stole food to feed myself. Until a lady whom I had from time to time mowed her lawn heard about my situation. Ms Daffney rescued me from the streets and welcomed me into her home. She gave me love and another chance to make something of myself. I continued with my studies. I joined the football and wrestling teams and excelled in both.
I was offered scholarships to many schools including Texas A&M. But by this time I had discovered my passion. I walked into the St Pete Boxing Club and the legendary trainer Dan Birmingham took me under his wing. With Coach Dan's tutelage and the watchful eyes of his brother Mike along with Jeff Lacy I was on my way.
Since I started boxing I've looked up to 4 boxers: Winky Wright, Jeff Lacy, Mike Tyson, and Lennox Lewis.
Winky put St Pete on the map and also because of his defense and jab.
Jeff because of his devastating left hook, and because he is always looking out for me.
Lennox because of his Jamaican background and how he left the game on top.
And Mike for all his trials and tribulations.
I hope to incorporate all these qualities into my career.
Religion has always been a huge part of my life. This was instilled in me as a child by my aunt and mom. It is the reason I am the man I am today.
My dream is to go home to Jamaica and visit my mom with the heavyweight title on my shoulder. I just want to be able to give back in some form, shape or fashion to everyone that has been instrumental in my life and to help the less fortunate.
"Believe in God, have faith. Anything is possible."
