23.08.07 – Former Olympians and World Champions Vernon Forrest an(HOUSTON, TEXAS)—Four-time Heavyweight Champion and 1984 Olympic bronze medalist Evander Holyfield and reigning Junior Middleweight boxing Champion Vernon Forrest took time to speak with several young boxers on Thursday at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.
With approximately 30 people in the audience, including the Cadet World Championships Team, both boxers imparted their words of wisdom and encouraged the young boxers to achieve their goals and follow their dreams.
Holyfield recounted various stories from his youth, including one from when his start in the sport of boxing. Early on his boxing career, Holyfield was unbeatable, winning every one of his bouts. However, his first loss was a challenging experience and made him want to quit boxing. It was his mother who dissuaded him.
“She said ‘if you quit because things don’t go your way, your going to quit your whole life,’” Holyfield said.
He also urged the young boxers to pursue their dreams whole-heartedly and not to let others determine their destiny. Growing up, Holyfield said many people criticized him and doubted both his size and ability. Yet he did not let the critics keep him from achieving his dreams.
“In life, it’s about setting goals,” Holyfield said. “You’ll never achieve your goal unless you work for it…Life is a journey. Boxing is a great sport. Don’t let somebody tell you your designation. You determine your own.”
Forrest’s advice pertained to the Cadets’ immediate future. They will be traveling to Azerbaijan on Monday to compete in the Cadet World Championships. Forrest urged them to cherish the time they have together as a team and be sure to create lasting memories.
“Make sure every time you go on a trip, take a camera to keep the memories,” Forrest said. “You’ll learn to appreciate the friendships and camaraderie you make. If you don’t stop to smell the roses, you’re going to miss it.”
The young boxers enjoyed their time with the two superstars of boxing, learning valuable lessons and creating a memory that will last a lifetime.
Holyfield and Forrest are in Houston for the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team Trials – Boxing, which will run through Sunday at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The two have been in Houston since the beginning of the event, cheering on the athletes as they chase their own Olympic dreams.