Debrecen, Hungary – Olympic hopeful Hámori Luca is stepping into a new phase of her boxing career, preparing for her professional debut against a Bosnian opponent. The 2024 Olympic fifth-place finisher weighed in at 66.4 kilograms for the welterweight contest, scheduled for four rounds, or potentially fewer, according to event organizers. This move comes as Hámori continues to refine her skills, recently completing an intensive five-week training camp in Houston under the guidance of legendary coach Ronnie Shields.
Photo: MOHD RASFAN / AFP
Hámori Luca in Top Form Ahead of Pro Debut
Hámori Luca feels the benefits of her recent training camp are already evident. She noted that her performance at the Bocskai Memorial International Boxing Tournament last week showcased the results of the five weeks spent in Houston working with Ronnie Shields, who has previously coached boxing icons Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield. The Hungarian boxer is approaching this new challenge with confidence, eager to apply the knowledge gained during her time in the United States.
“I’m always open to new things, which is why I said yes to the professional fight,” Hámori said, according to reports. “I don’t recognize my opponent yet, but if I can put what I learned in America to apply in this fight, I don’t think there will be any problems.” She emphasized that her primary focus remains on amateur boxing, with her sights set on a strong showing at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Adding a touch of flair to her preparation, Hámori is entering the ring with a striking hairstyle – a look she previously debuted at the Paris Olympics. This distinctive style has grow something of a signature for the Hungarian boxer.
The professional gala, taking place on Wednesday, will also serve as a tribute to the legacy of three-time Olympic champion Papp László. A commemoration will be held in his honor, and the inaugural members of the Hungarian Boxing Hall of Fame will be inducted. The event, hosted at the Dr. Koltai Jenő Sportközpont, is scheduled to initiate at 7:00 PM local time (6:00 PM UTC). Doors open at 2:00 PM at the Testnevelési Egyetem pályája. The main event will feature a bout between Poland’s Mariusz Wach and Ukraine’s Viktor Vihriszt for the WBO European heavyweight title. The Hungarian National Bank will also unveil commemorative coins (5,000 and 25,000 forint denominations) and the Hungarian Post will release a special stamp collection, even as a fashion brand will showcase its Papp 100 collection.
Hámori’s decision to take a professional fight alongside her amateur aspirations is a testament to her dedication and ambition. While the focus remains on representing Hungary at the Los Angeles Olympics, this foray into the professional ranks provides valuable experience and an opportunity to test her skills against a different caliber of opponent. The Houston training camp, under the tutelage of Shields, appears to have been instrumental in preparing her for this next step.
Shields, a highly respected figure in the boxing world, has a proven track record of developing world-class fighters. His emphasis on adapting to a boxer’s existing style, rather than completely overhauling it, resonated with Hámori. She noted that Shields “accepted that [she was] already a prepared boxer” and focused on refining her technique and adding subtle improvements.
The upcoming bout represents a significant moment in Hámori’s career. While the identity of her Bosnian opponent remains undisclosed, Hámori is confident in her preparation and eager to showcase the skills she honed in Houston. The event promises to be a celebration of Hungarian boxing, honoring the past while looking towards the future.
Following the professional debut, Hámori will return her focus to Olympic qualification. The Hungarian boxing federation is reportedly keen to see her move up to the 55kg weight class to compete in an Olympic weight division, a possibility that is being considered as she continues to develop.
Fans can follow Hámori Luca’s progress on her official Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/luca.hamori.1) for updates and insights into her training and competition schedule. The next confirmed event is her professional debut this Wednesday in Debrecen, Hungary.
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