Sponsorship Spotlight: The Rise of a Young Boxing Star

Sponsorship Spotlight: The Rise of a Young Boxing Star
At Gym Villain, we are thrilled to sponsor a young athlete like Ronny "Rocket" Smith, whose commitment to excellence in boxing is already setting him apart. From his early days in martial arts to his rise as a 3x Regional champion, Ronny’s journey has been fuelled by hard work, discipline, and a love for the sport. But what’s most inspiring is his relentless drive to push himself, even when the training gets tough.
In this interview, we dive deeper into Ronny’s training routine, his favourite parts of boxing, and the challenges he faces along the way. His answers highlight the dedication it takes to succeed at the highest level of boxing—and why we believe he has what it takes to keep achieving his dreams.
Q: Ronny, you’ve been involved in martial arts since the age of 5. Can you tell us more about how you got started?
Ronny:
Yeah, from the age of 5, I was always full of energy and loved moving around. My dad noticed I had a natural talent for martial arts, so he took me to a local kickboxing club to see if it was something I’d enjoy. It was there that I really started to develop my skills. I loved it right away and quickly realized I had a talent for it. It wasn’t long before I was competing in my first few matches.
Q: You had a strong start, but you didn’t win your first fight. How did you handle that, and what did it teach you?
Ronny:
I lost my first fight, which was tough. But I wasn’t discouraged—I was more determined. Losing just pushed me harder. After that, I went on a streak and won six fights in a row. Losing that first fight taught me the importance of perseverance, and that’s something I carry with me in everything I do. It made me realize that every loss is a lesson and a stepping stone toward improvement.
Q: How did you make the transition from kickboxing to boxing?
Ronny:
A big part of that transition happened when a friend of my dad’s, Harry, introduced me to boxing. He took me to my first boxing club in Bedford, and that was when I really started to see the differences between kickboxing and boxing. The techniques were different, but I loved it. I had a chance to spar and get experience in the ring, and it didn’t take long before I proved myself. Within just eight months, I won my first boxing fight, which was a huge moment for me.
Q: What role has your move to Bletchley Boxing Club played in your progress?
Ronny:
Moving to Bletchley Boxing Club was a game-changer. The coaches there have really helped me take my boxing to the next level. I’ve been able to refine my skills, learn new techniques, and challenge myself in ways I didn’t expect. The support and training I’ve received at Bletchley have been key in helping me stay focused and improve. To date, I’ve fought in over 15 matches, and I’m still learning and growing with every fight.
Q: Ronny, you’ve mentioned that sparring is your favourite part of training. What do you love about it?
Ronny:
Sparring is definitely my favorite part. It’s where I can really test myself and try out new moves I’ve been practicing. I love the feeling of being in the ring, constantly adjusting and perfecting my technique. Every sparring session is an opportunity to improve, and it helps me stay sharp. When I’m in a real fight, I can rely on the skills I’ve practiced in sparring, so it’s a key part of my training. I also love the challenge of thinking on my feet and outsmarting my opponent.
Q: On the flip side, what's the hardest part of training for you?
Ronny:
Without a doubt, it’s the running. Boxing is intense, and the physical conditioning required is tough, especially the cardio. As a boxer at my level, I do about 3 rounds in a fight, which can be equivalent to running around 3 kilometers per round. To keep up my stamina, I need to run at least five times a week, with a minimum of 5 kilometers each time. That’s a lot of running! But, I know it’s essential for keeping my endurance up, so even though I don’t always enjoy it, I push through.
Q: What motivates you to get out and do those runs, even when it’s tough?
Ronny:
To be honest, it’s all about mindset. I don’t really give myself the option to skip it. I just get up, put on my gear, and go. There’s no shortcut to success. If I want to be the best, I have to do the work, even when it’s not fun. I know that each run, each extra kilometer, is pushing me closer to my goals. It’s all part of the process, and I’m willing to put in the hard work to get there. That’s my motivation—knowing that there’s no cheat to success.
Q: You've accomplished so much already, but what drives you to keep going?
Ronny:
Honestly, it's the desire to keep improving and achieving more. Every win, every title, is a step toward bigger dreams. But there’s always more to learn, and I want to keep testing myself at a higher level. I also want to make my family and my supporters proud. But most of all, I’m doing it for myself. I want to prove to myself that I can reach the highest levels in boxing and achieve everything I’ve dreamed of. That’s what keeps me going, even on the tough days.
Q: What advice would you give to others looking to pursue boxing or any sport at a high level?
Ronny:
The biggest piece of advice I’d give is to be ready to work hard, every single day. It’s not always going to be easy, and there will be days when you feel like quitting. But the difference between those who make it and those who don’t is persistence. Keep pushing, keep learning, and never give up on your goals. You won’t get anywhere by taking shortcuts. It takes dedication, discipline, and a lot of hard work, but it’s all worth it when you see the results.
Q: Ronny, we’ve heard that your favourite punch is a “screw shot.” Can you tell us more about it?
Ronny:
Yeah, that’s right! A screw shot is basically a jab, but with a twist. You throw it just like a regular jab, but as your hand extends, you twist your fist. It’s a little different from a traditional jab because the twist adds an extra bit of power and makes the punch harder for your opponent to see coming. It’s also a great punch for setting up other combinations or closing the distance quickly. I can land it a lot, and it’s effective in almost any situation, whether I’m on the offensive or trying to get inside my opponent’s defense.
Q: How does the screw shot help you during a fight?
Ronny:
The screw shot is a great way to set the pace of the fight. It’s quick and it can help me control the range between me and my opponent. If I can land that punch and move in quickly, I can set up other shots or combinations that might catch them off guard. Plus, it’s a punch I can rely on when I need to disrupt their rhythm. It’s not just about landing the punch—it’s about creating openings and making sure I’m always one step ahead.
Q: Ronny, who do you admire most in the world of boxing?
Ronny:
The boxer I admire the most is definitely Andre Ward. I think he's one of the smartest and most clever boxers to ever step into the ring. Ward isn’t just about power or speed; it’s his intelligence and ability to control the fight that I really respect. He knows how to think ahead of his opponents, how to use the ring, and how to outsmart people. That’s something I aspire to. I want to be a boxer who doesn’t just rely on brute strength but also on my mind and tactics, like Andre Ward did.
Q: How has Andre Ward’s career influenced your approach to boxing?
Ronny:
Watching Ward has taught me how important it is to be clever in the ring. It’s not just about having good technique—it’s about understanding the psychology of the fight and knowing when to take control. I’ve learned from him that boxing isn’t just physical; it’s mental too. You have to be able to read your opponent, adjust your strategy, and make decisions in the heat of the moment. I try to keep that mindset when I train and when I’m in the ring. Every fight is an opportunity to learn and adapt, and I want to take that same approach that Andre Ward used to stay one step ahead.
Q: Ronny, you have a lot of local support at your fights. How does that make you feel?
Ronny:
I’m honestly so proud to have such a strong backing from my local community. Every time I step into the ring and see people cheering me on, it gives me that extra boost of energy. It’s amazing to know that the people around me believe in what I’m doing and are there to support me every step of the way. It makes me want to do my best, not just for myself but for them too. I want to show them that their support means everything to me, and I’m giving my all to make them proud.
Q: You’ve also mentioned how much you appreciate your sponsors. How have they played a role in your journey?
Ronny:
I can’t thank my sponsors enough. Honestly, they’ve been one of the main reasons I’ve been able to get to where I am today. Their support has given me the opportunity to train, travel to competitions, and focus on my development as a boxer. Without that backing, it would be much harder to pursue my dreams. They’ve helped me stay focused on what really matters: improving as a fighter and taking my career to the next level. Knowing that I have their support is incredibly motivating. I don’t take it for granted, and I’m always looking for ways to give back and represent them well.
Q: You’re clearly grateful for the support you’ve received. What are your future goals when it comes to community involvement and mentorship?
Ronny:
One of my biggest goals is to help spread the growth of boxing in my community. I want to be part of programs that help get kids into the sport and show them what it can teach them—not just in terms of fitness but also discipline, respect, and mental toughness. I also want to be more involved in local events and initiatives, whether it’s hosting training camps, speaking to young athletes, or just being an example of what dedication and hard work can do. The community has supported me so much, and I want to help create opportunities for others the same way I’ve had the chance to pursue mine. It’s all about giving back.
Q: Ronny, tell us about your first experience entering the arena at the King of the Ring event. What were you feeling?
Ronny:
Honestly, when I first stepped into the arena, I was a bit intimidated. It’s such a big event, and the atmosphere was electric. There were fighters from all over the world, and I knew I was up against some really tough competition. At first, I felt a little nervous, but that quickly faded when I saw the other fighters from Bletchley Boxing Club. I was surrounded by teammates and friends, and the excitement started to build. It felt amazing to be part of such a big event with people who had been supporting me all along. And to have my brother and dad there cheering me on made everything feel even more special. They’re my biggest fans, and having them there gave me that extra motivation to push through.
Q: You won your first fight at the King of the Ring, defeating the Scottish Number 1. How did that victory feel?
Ronny:
Winning that first fight felt incredible. I was up against the Scottish Number 1, and I knew it was going to be a tough one. But when I got that win, it was such a rush. It really showed me that I could compete at that level, and it gave me a huge boost of confidence. To be able to come out on top against someone that skilled and well-ranked made me feel like all my hard work was paying off. It’s one of those moments I’ll never forget. It was an amazing experience to be able to represent Bletchley Boxing Club and do well on such a big stage.
Q: Unfortunately, after a very close fight, you were eliminated from the competition. What did that feel like?
Ronny:
Yeah, after that win, I fought another opponent who was really strong, and it came down to a very close match. I lost, but it was a tough fight, and I gave it everything I had. Even though I didn’t win, I’m really proud of how I performed. I was up against a very skilled opponent, and to only narrowly lose shows that I’m improving and getting closer to where I want to be. It’s tough not to make it all the way, but I walked away from the event feeling good about the experience. It showed me that I’m on the right path, and that I’m capable of competing with some of the best.
Q: What did you learn from this experience that you can take forward into your boxing journey?
Ronny:
The biggest lesson I took from King of the Ring is that every fight is an opportunity to learn and grow. Even when you don’t win, there’s so much to take away from the experience. I learned a lot about my own strengths and areas where I need to improve. Competing at that level was eye-opening, and it pushed me to think more strategically in the ring. I also learned that no matter how tough the fight gets, you have to keep going and give it your all. I’ll take everything I’ve learned from Sweden and use it to come back stronger in my future fights.
Q: Ronny, you’re balancing your boxing journey with your education. Can you tell us a little about what you’re studying at college?
Ronny:
Yeah, at the moment I’m studying to be a painter and decorator. It’s something I’ve always had an interest in, and I enjoy the hands-on work. College is giving me a great opportunity to develop those skills, and I think it’s a good career to have alongside boxing. I’ve learned a lot already, and I’m looking forward to finishing my studies and starting work in the trade. But my ultimate goal is to combine my passion for fitness and boxing with a career that allows me to give back to others.
Q: You’ve mentioned that you plan to become a personal trainer (PT) and a boxing coach when you turn 18. What inspired you to pursue these career paths?
Ronny:
I’ve always been passionate about fitness, and I want to use what I’ve learned in boxing to help others. I’m really inspired by the way my own coach has guided me, and I want to do the same for young people who are just starting out or even those who may not know what they want to do yet. Becoming a PT and a boxing coach will give me the chance to pass on the discipline, skills, and mental strength that I’ve gained from boxing. I want to be able to mentor and guide young people, help them stay focused, and show them that hard work and dedication can take them far in life.
Q: How has boxing shaped your perspective on life, and how do you think it’s kept you out of trouble?
Ronny:
Boxing has been a huge influence on me. It’s not just about fighting; it’s about learning self-discipline, respect for others, and managing your emotions. It’s taught me that hard work and perseverance are key to success, and that if you stay focused, you can achieve great things. Without boxing, I think I could have easily gotten caught up in the wrong crowd. Boxing has given me structure and purpose, and my parents have always supported me and kept me on track. I’m lucky to have had that strong foundation.
Q: You’ve mentioned that your dad is your biggest fan. What does it mean to you to have him in the crowd at every fight?
Ronny:
It means everything to me. No matter what, my dad is always there. He’s seen me at my highs and my lows, and he’s always been there to pick me up when I need it. I know I can always count on him for support, whether I win or lose. Having him in the crowd, cheering me on, gives me so much strength and motivation. It’s like I’m fighting for him, too. Knowing that he’s there, proud of what I’m doing, helps me push through even the toughest moments. He’s my biggest fan, and I’ll always be grateful for that.
Q: How would you describe your relationship with your parents, Trish and Jonny, and how has their support shaped your journey?
Ronny:
I’m lucky to have two amazing, dedicated parents in Trish and Jonny. They’ve supported me in every way possible—not just financially, but emotionally as well. They’ve always been my biggest fans at every event, always in the crowd cheering me on, and they’ve given me the confidence to keep going, even when things get tough. I couldn’t ask for better role models. My parents have taught me so much about hard work, integrity, and staying true to myself. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Their support has shaped me into the person I am, and I’m so thankful for everything they do for me.
Q: Ronny, 2025 looks like it's going to be an exciting year for you. What are you most looking forward to?
Ronny:
2025 is going to be huge. The first big thing is the Youth Cadet National Championships in January. This competition is important because if I win my fights, I could be selected for the English Boxing Team—something I narrowly missed out on this year. It’s a big goal of mine to make the team, so I’m putting in everything I’ve got to make it happen. The training for this is going to be intense, but I know I have the ability to do it. I’m focused and determined to take my skills to the next level and hopefully get that opportunity.
Q: After the National Championships, you’re heading to Sweden to compete in the King of the Ring again. What are you expecting this time around, and how do you plan to improve from your experience last year?
Ronny:
Going back to Sweden for the King of the Ring is something I’m really looking forward to. Last time, I gained a lot of experience, and even though I didn’t make it all the way through, I was proud of my performance. This year, I’m coming in stronger and more prepared. I know what to expect in terms of the competition and the pressure of the event, so I’ll be mentally and physically ready to give it my all. I’ve learned a lot from my previous fights, and I’ll be focusing on keeping my calm, sticking to my strategy, and using everything I’ve been working on in training. I’m aiming to make a bigger impact this time.
Q: Toward the end of the year, you’ll be competing in the NABGC Championships. What are your goals for this event, and how are you preparing for it?
Ronny:
The NABGC Championships at the end of 2025 are definitely a big goal for me. It’s an important event, and it’s a great chance to test myself against some of the best young boxers out there. I’m preparing by focusing on building my endurance, sharpening my technique, and staying mentally tough. I know it’s going to be a tough competition, but I’m ready to put everything I’ve got into it. My goal is to perform at my highest level and hopefully bring home a title. I’ve got a great team behind me, and I feel ready to take on whatever challenges come my way.
Q: What other opportunities are you hoping to have in 2025, and how do you plan to continue developing as a fighter?
Ronny:
2025 is going to be filled with a lot of opportunities, and I’m hoping for as many fights and experiences as possible. I want to keep competing, learning, and improving, whether that’s in local competitions, regional titles, or international events. Every fight is an opportunity to learn something new and grow as a fighter. I’m also planning to keep pushing myself in training, working on new techniques, and improving my physical conditioning. My coach and I have some exciting plans for my development, so I’m looking forward to seeing where that takes me.
A Special Thank You
Ronny would like to extend a huge thank you to his family, friends, and all of his supporters, including his sponsors, who have made it possible for him to pursue his passion for boxing and achieve the successes he has so far.
Ronny says:
"I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without the incredible support I’ve received from my family, especially my parents, Trish and Jonny, who have always believed in me and have been there every step of the way. Their unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation for me. My dad, Jonny, has been my biggest fan and inspiration—he pushes me to keep going, even on the toughest days. I'm also incredibly grateful to have the backing of my sponsors. Without their financial support and belief in me, I wouldn’t have the opportunities I’ve had to compete and grow as a fighter. You all are a huge part of my journey, and I can’t thank you enough for helping me make my dreams a reality.
"I’m so grateful to everyone who’s supported me—especially my family, who have been with me every step of the way. To my sponsors at Gym Villain, thank you for believing in me and helping me get closer to my dreams. Your support means everything to me, and I promise to keep working hard and making you proud."
Looking Forward to the Future
At Gym Villain, we are thrilled to be a part of Ronny’s journey. His heart, ambition, and talent make him someone we believe in wholeheartedly, and we can’t wait to see all the incredible things he will achieve. We’re confident that 2025 will be a year full of victories, growth, and new opportunities for Ronny, and we’re honored to stand behind him as he takes on new challenges in the boxing world.
Stay Connected with Ronny
Follow Gym Villain and Ronny’s journey as he continues to make strides toward his goals. The best is yet to come for this incredible young man, and we’re excited to be a part of his rise to greatness.
Ronny is a true testament to what hard work, ambition, and a big heart can achieve. We’re proud to support him and excited to see all that lies ahead in his future!
  Megan Sim
  Managing Director
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