Derek Starling is a 6’5” heavyweight with a record of 2-0. At age 32, the southpaw born in Philadelphia, PA started boxing at age 12. He amassed an impressive amateur record and competed in five National Golden Gloves and 2 USA Nationals.
Despite his enormous frame, the former four-year letterman in basketball is swift on his feet. Unlike most heavyweights his size, Starling moves well and he believes it is just as important that he solidifies his craft in the ring along with his intimidating size.
“I’m not just a big guy with power, I can really box,” Starling said. “Knockouts are important because it leads to bigger checks and better opportunities, but I want to show I’m the total package.”
Much like his basketball days as a Power Forward who could shoot as well as grab boards, Starling is focused on developing his entire craft as a well-rounded fighter.
He is tentatively scheduled to fight on July 17th, although an opponent has yet to be secured. Regardless of his TBA opponent, Starling is focused on the task at hand and is only concerned with getting better every day.
“[The lack of opponent] doesn’t bother me because I know what I have to do. I know the things I need to get better at and I’m confident I will show up and produce on the night. I got to the gym and train what I work on and when I get in that ring we make the adjustments.”
Although he may come across as a gentle giant, Starling knows when to turn it on and how to keep his composure. He is a natural athlete and a serious competitor, but he insists that his playful demeanor is left outside of the ring on fight night.
“I don’t have time to talk and play around, you don’t play this sport. I smile and I like to laugh, but when it comes to the ring, I’m all business.”
