In the build-up to his upcoming fight, lightweight Frank Martin, alongside trainer Derrick James, made an appearance at Children’s Health hospital in Dallas in support of the Derrick James Family Foundation.
Martin is set to face WBA lightweight titleholder Gervonta Davis on June 15 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Martin (18-0, 12 KOs), an underdog leading into the fight, is finding causes and people in his life to serve as motivation. Martin has never been a pay-per-view headliner and was only recently elevated to main event status after a star-making performance against Michel Rivera in 2022, winning a unanimous decision over the lightweight contender.
“Everything that I’m working towards is a lot bigger than me,” Martin said. “I do it for the kids, and I do it for my family and friends.”
Since that win, Martin won a close unanimous decision last July over Artem Harutyunyan, who now faces Shakur Stevenson on July 6. Martin was rumored to be an opponent for Stevenson, but the fight fell through and he hasn’t fought since. Despite his detractors and critics, Martin remains focused. He sparred with Davis some years back, which was a talking point of their rowdy press conference. Martin seems to be channeling the mindset of a teacher, looking to empower youth with his comments about the upcoming fight.
“I know that I can inspire others through what I do in the ring, and that’s why I’m putting everything I have into being at my best on June 15,” Martin said.
James also shared his perspective, emphasizing his role as a role model heading into this career-defining fight for Martin.
“I understand how fortunate I am and the opportunities I have been given,” James said. “I also understand my responsibility to the youth in my community. They inspire me to be my best, just like I hope I’m inspiring them.”
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