Boxing Legacy
"My father was a professional," rising bantamweight John Leonardo tells me, "so I just followed in his steps pretty much." Sure enough, New Jersey’s Leonardo comes from boxing stock, his father having been a professional middleweight. Indeed, the senior Leonardo also gave his son the nickname the junior Leonardo now goes by – Body Shot. "My dad was a body puncher," Leonardo says, "one of the best body punchers. That was something that was instilled in my mind." The senior Leonardo also seems to have helped instill a quality style for his son. Fighting behind a high guard and an impressive jab, Leonardo knows how to maintain range while applying pressure in the ring.
On May 11th, Leonardo will have a chance to showcase his skills as he faces Frank Gomez at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino in Atlantic City. Promoted by Tony Jeter, the Leonardo-Gomez fight is set to be a highlight of the evening's Boxing Insider card. Despite not knowing much about Gomez, Leonardo has been studying film of his opponent and remains unfazed. Having not fought since August, Leonardo has been diligently preparing for his return to the ring.
Training rigorously, Leonardo works out three times a day and boxes every night. In addition to traditional training methods, he incorporates swimming into his routine, aiming to push himself by swimming nonstop for 50-60 laps and increasing his speed periodically. Clearly dedicated and disciplined, the 23-year-old fighter is eager to make his comeback.
John Leonardo, a rising star in the boxing world, may only have been fighting professionally since 2021, but his journey in the sport started long before that. The Daily News Golden Glove winner boasts an impressive amateur record, with over 65 fights under his belt. He clinched victories in the New Jersey Golden Gloves and the Diamond Gloves for New Jersey, showcasing his talent both locally and internationally. Leonardo also took his skills overseas, competing in Sweden and Denmark as part of the New York Metro Team.
Looking ahead, Leonardo has his sights set on a significant goal. "I'm looking to get into the top ten," he reveals. "Obviously my goal is to win a world title. That's the big goal."
Tickets for Boxing Insider Promotion’s May 11th event are now available for purchase here.
