Not many boxers start out as wrestlers; however, wrestling can lead to a successful boxing career for a few reasons. First, training as a wrestler builds strength and instills essential fighting reflexes that transfer nicely to the boxing ring. Also, adding striking skills to a background in wrestling creates a balanced fighter who’s ready for anything. Lastly, existing fans will likely show up to see their favorite wrestler step into the boxing ring.

From the Mat to the Ring

MMA combines grappling and striking, which is why so many wrestlers begin on the mat and end up in the cage. As is the case with MMA, the level of fitness, endurance, and strength a wrestler possesses can go a long way in preparing them for the boxing ring. While transitioning from wrestling to extreme fighting is obviously commonplace, there aren’t as many wrestlers going into boxing. 

The Spirit of a Fighter

The truth is, wrestlers and boxers share a lot of the same attributes. Both sports require dedication and hard work both before and during a competition, and it takes a certain type of person to undertake that challenge. Both wrestlers and boxers subject their bodies to rigorous training before engaging with an official opponent. Because any combat sport requires its participants to have a lot of “heart,” the type of person who excels in one fighting discipline would probably be good at another.

Fighting Instincts and Physical Strength

While wrestling is all about what happens on the mat, it still shares fundamental elements with boxing, such as imposing one’s will on an opponent. Applying submissions as a wrestler makes a fighter instinctively aware of an opponent’s intentions. Not just that, but becoming a wrestler imparts a level of durability unparalleled by other sports, making it an ideal foundation for a career in boxing. 

Being Prepared for Anything 

Whether you’re a spectator or participant in combat sports, you need to be able to defend yourself in a real-life altercation. Even the most skilled wrestler could face an opponent he can’t take down, making boxing an invaluable skill. Training in striking and grappling makes one a formidable opponent, which is why it’s a good idea for wrestlers to cross-train in at least one striking discipline.

Crossover Fans

Another benefit to cross-training as a boxer is that boxing is even more popular than wrestling, and fans love both. The typical wrestling enthusiast would love nothing more than to see his or her favorite wrestler battle an opponent in the boxing ring.

Pro Wrestlers as Boxers

You may assume we’ve been talking about “sport wrestling,” but have you watched professional wrestling lately? Pro wrestlers are crazy strong and are used to hitting the mat and bouncing back. And that strength and resilience serve them well as they transition to the boxing ring. 

Example of a Pro Wrestler Transitioning Into Boxing

Pro wrestling sensation, Dylan Bostic, is making the surprising yet strategical transition to boxing. And anyone who’s seen Dylan knows he doesn’t fit the usual profile of a professional wrestler. Despite his lean physique, Dylan is solid and ripped, weighing in at 205.

Dylan made his debut in the world of professional wrestling back in 2007, and since then, he has won several championships all over the United States and Canada. Dylan is a winner, and his fans can glean inspiration from his versatility and dedication. Whether you’re an amateur, a pro, or someone working in a non-athletic field, Dylan offers these words of encouragement: “If you’re happy with where you are or where you’re headed, then you are successful!” 

Dylan already has a long list of achievements to be proud of, and he’s not afraid to take on new challenges. We can’t wait to see how Dylan fares as he adds boxing to his already impressive resume.

Fans can follow Dylan Bostic on his exciting journey from pro wrestling to boxing via his Instagram and Twitter accounts.