Pryce Taylor and the art of stealing

In a world where heavyweight boxing is often about scowls and bravado, 28-year-old Brooklyn native Pryce Taylor, who recently signed with Salita Promotions, believes calm confidence is the ultimate intimidation tactic.

Taylor closes out his 2024 campaign on December 12 on Salita Promotions’ “Big Time Boxing USA” in Dort Federal Event Center, Flint, Michigan, facing KeShawn Jackson of Kalamazoo, Michigan. 

Despite his modest 4-0 (2 KOs) record, Taylor has set ambitious goals, including reaching 100-0 as quickly as possible, starting with a win over Jackson (1-5-1). While Jackson’s record may not be intimidating, Taylor is approaching the bout with a focused yet flashy style, a mindset he credits to his training at NY Cops and Kids gym under coach Benny Roman. This focus comes as his manager secured him a promotional contract.

“My manager Keith Sullivan really did his thing,” Taylor told BoxingScene, crediting Sullivan’s negotiating skills. “He showed everybody I’m the real deal. I got to put on a show for the people.”

Taylor’s rise hasn’t been without setbacks. An injury delayed his plans this year, but he insists that December is his time to shine after a spell of inactivity; he’s fought three times this year but not since May.

Taylor’s approach to boxing is cerebral, influenced by observing fighters much smaller than him like Shakur Stevenson and Keyshawn Davis. “Shakur, man, he’s not scared—he’s just smart,” Taylor said. “He knows anyone in that ring is dangerous, so he stays patient, alert. Watching him taught me a lot.”

Taylor admits he studies everything—from Richard Torrez’s power in the amateurs to the strategies of boxing’s slickest technicians. “I steal something from everybody,” Taylor said. “Then I make it my own. That’s why no one can beat me.”

A fan of chess, Taylor’s mentality toward tactics shapes his style, but don’t mistake his strategy for hesitation. “Boxing is chess, and the masters are patient,” Taylor said. “But when it’s time to attack, I don’t miss.”

Taylor’s upcoming opponent, Jackson, originally agreed to a six-round fight but later opted for four. Taylor didn’t hesitate to interpret this as fear. “He probably figured six rounds wouldn’t go the distance,” Taylor said. “He’s hoping he will [last the distance], but I am going to cut the ring off. He’ll get paid, sure—but he’s going to get hurt.”

Taylor is also eager to fast-track his career, which is sign of his confidence, but also possibly his age as he closes in on turning 30, something of a difficult number for athletes.

“I’m trying to get to 10-round fights as fast as possible,” he said. “I want to be the co-main event, then the main event every time.”

Taylor’s calm demeanor and pleasant smile at some weigh-ins isn’t just that – it is a tactic. 

 “I once scared a guy at the weigh-in just by smiling,” he said, recalling a time when his opponent didn’t even show up for the fight. “I don’t talk shit; I just smile.”