Caleb Truax started his boxing career in a different manner than most boxers. He randomly decided to join a ToughMan Contest with some of his buddies and in the ring, he found his passion. Caleb worked endlessly throughout his career, not only to catch up to people who started way before he did, but to surpass many of them. I have seen a great majority of Caleb’s fights and he continues to improve on every bell. I think this speaks directly to his determination and will power.
Not only is Caleb a great boxer, I consider him one of the most inspiring friends I have. As a boxer, he continues to raise the bar physically and mentally. As he trains consistently throughout the year, Caleb still finds time to spend with kids all across Minnesota as a way to give back to his fans and supporters. His story shows you a small glimpse of what life is like as one of the world’s rising boxers, competing for the top spot.
How long have you been boxing for?
I have been boxing for about 11 years. 3+ as an amateur. 7+ As a professional.
How long have you known you wanted to be a boxer?
I actually got a late start in boxing at the age of 19. I had always been a fan of the sport, but never imagined I would participate, especially at the level I am at now. I started on a whim and was lucky enough to find my passion.
Photo Via: www.13twentythree.com
Why are you passionate about what you do?
Boxing is my passion. I love everything about the sport, (expect not being able to eat junk food) from training, studying film of old fighters, watching current fights, the camaraderie amongst fighters in my gym, to the actual fight. The driving force behind all of that is my competitive nature. I love to compete at anything I do, almost to a fault sometimes.
Image Via: MinnesotaBoxing.com
How did you overcome your own doubts and the doubts of other people?
I overcame other peoples doubts by working my ass off in the gym and performing when the lights were on. Simple as that. I overcame self doubt through my experiences in the ring, surrounding myself with a great team who believed in me 100%, and through a ton of support from my family, friends, and fans.
What were some bumps you hit to get where you’re at now?
Every fighter has some adversity in their career. I’ve had my fair share of injuries, inactivity in the ring, promotional issues, cancelled fights, ect. I just chalked them up as experience and didn’t let anything lead me astray from my goal as being the best fighter I can be.
What is one thing you did wrong in the past that you can share with people?
I went into my fight with Jermain Taylor with some self doubt. It was my 1st big fight against a guy who was a former world champion and I didn’t know if I belonged in the ring with a guy like that. Doubting myself is a mistake that I will never make again.
As a boxer, what is a way you’ve gotten your name out there?
Social media was very important, along with word of mouth. I think what separates me from other athletes is that I’m very approachable. I have no problems conversating, signing autographs, or taking pictures with any of my fans. People respond to that and word gets out that not only am I a good fighter, but a decent dude as we’ll.
Is there anything that almost stopped you from doing this?
I’m too stubborn to let anything stop me from doing what I love to do!
Is there anyone in your profession that you admire and/or model yourself after?
I always point to 3: Bernard Hopkins for his longevity. Oscar De La Hoya for his business acumen. Floyd Mayweather for his crazy skills and work ethic.
What keeps you motivated when you are training?
Knowing that the other guy is trying to knock me out is what keeps me motivated! If I take any short cuts, my opponent might be out working me in the gym. The thought of that is what drives me to bust my ass every day.
What was your favorite fight you’ve had to date? Why?
Has to be my fight with Donovan George on Espn. He was a heavy favorite and he thought he was going to come to Minneapolis, my city, and run through me. I knocked his ass out in 6!
You have a degree from the University of Minnesota, what did you gain from your degree? What do you plan on doing after boxing?
I graduated from the U of M in 2006 with a degree in sociology, minoring in African American studies and Political Science. After boxing, I plan on either going back for a masters degree, or utilizing the degree I have. I’ll have to wait and see what the future holds.
What are some of the fighters who you want a chance in the ring with?
I’d love to get in the ring with any of the champions in my division today. I just want a shot to prove I belong with the best. I’ll fight anyone.
How do you continue to perfect your craft?
Through hard work in the gym, studying fights and learning the subtleties of the sweet science, taking good care of my body, and listening to my coaches!
As a boxer, what do you think sets you apart from other boxers when you’re in the ring?
I think of myself as a very cerebral fighter who is always thinking in the ring. I think that sets me apart from other fighters.
How do you envision the future of your career?
I’m very excited to see where boxing takes me in the future. I am very close to fighting for a world title and realizing one of my original goals by winning that title.
What’s some advice you can share for anyone who wants to pursuit what you are doing?
Do things the right way. Period. Focus on fundamentals rather than trying to be flashy. Don’t take any shortcuts while training and preparing because your opponent might not. Develop a good jab!
Where can people go to find out more about your upcoming fights?
Facebook fan page:
Follow me on twitter
Any shout-outs you want to give?
Shout out to and 7 Days Theory! I appreciate the love!
Shout out to my team, Tom Halstad, Ron Lyke, Tony Grygelko, Jim Maurine, Warriors boxing, and Al Haymon.
Shout out to my family and my girl for all the support. And to all my awesome friends.
And shout out to #TeamTruax!!
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