So, New York City has spat out another tale of boxing dreams, this time with lawyer Keith Sullivan wrapping up a deal to manage Nisa Rodriguez, a cop by day and a boxer by night, who’s now deciding to punch for pay. At 33, Rodriguez isn’t just dabbling in boxing between police shifts and reminiscing about her teaching days; she’s a walking trophy cabinet with enough gold to start her own bank.
Come this Friday, Rodriguez is stepping into the pro ring for the first time at Madison Square Garden Theater, because, why not start at the top? She’s up against Jozette Cotton, who’s apparently decided that getting punched in the face without gloves was a bit much and is now trying boxing with padding.
Rodriguez’s son, probably tired of seeing all the trophies cluttering the house, suggested she go pro. Inspired by the impact of boxing on women and probably bored with the day job, she’s now on a mission to inspire more women to take up the sport. It’s all very touching.
Signing with Sullivan wasn’t a shot in the dark; the man’s got a track record and doesn’t just talk a good game. He’s in the business of guiding young talents, and Rodriguez, with her blend of policing and punching, seemed like a good fit. Plus, she’s already playing hero in her day job, dealing with the tough cases and making a difference, one kid at a time.
Sullivan’s no stranger to managing talents, with Brooklyn heavyweight Pryce Taylor and WBA contender Paddy Donovan in his stable. He’s all about character, and Rodriguez, with her mix of community service and combat sports, ticked all the right boxes. It’s like the universe scripted this, with Sullivan’s parents’ careers mirroring Rodriguez’s life. Now, if only life were that neat and predictable.