| |
It’s north versus south when Mary Jo Sanders meets Chevelle Hallback in a
battle of junior welterweights Thursday that could be the fight of the year.
Sanders (8-0), a non-stop puncher with quickness and stamina out of
Michigan, faces Florida’s Hallback who has those same qualities and hopes to
carry them to the heavier weight class. Both will meet for the IBA
Intercontinental title at the Kewadin Casino in Sault St. Marie, Michigan.
| “I’m really excited to be fighting again,” said Hallback (20-3-1), whose
last fight was on September 2003 against Michelle Ewing. A month before that
she fought the talented Melissa Del Valle in winning by unanimous decision.
“I can’t wait to get in the ring again.” (inset (r)photo: Hallback) |
|
But this year has been much more difficult finding opponents and a venue so
she recently signed with Jackie Kallen and Jeanne Miranda to co-manage her
boxing career. The personable Hallback is also considering a move to
California.
“I’m having a little problem getting fights in Florida so I’m going to make
my move,” said Hallback, who also fights out of Savannah, Georgia.
This past year Hallback has been tutored by trainer Buddy McGirt whose
pupils include Antonio Tarver and Arturo Gatti, both fighters that have
emerged from anonymity to super star status. She’s also picked up moves and
strategy from other fighters while in Vero Beach which has become a magnet
for prizefighters such as Oscar De La Hoya and Panchito Bojado.
Always light-hearted, Hallback wants to fight several times in the next few
months. Her weight ranges from 130 to 140. She currently is the IBA
130-pound title-holder.
“If I get enough time to prepare I can fight at 130,” Hallback said. “I
fight all the way up to 147.”
Though blessed with outstanding athletic ability, Hallback confesses it
never gets easier before stepping in the ring.
“I get so nervous,” said Hallback who has engaged formidable opponents like
Lucia Rijker and Layla McCarter. “I really get nervous. But once the fight
begins everything is OK.”
Sanders, who is reportedly the daughter of famed NFL player Charlie Sanders,
has been busy this year including a decision win over McCarter last April
16. Almost a year ago Sanders was featured at the Playboy Mansion where she
put on a display against Cynthia Prouder in winning by decision.
Her opponent impresses Hallback.
“I hear she’s a pretty good boxer,” said Hallback, who has been fighting
professionally since 1997. “I’m glad she decided to fight me. I know it’s
going to be a great fight.”
|
|
