Life at elite level Hodges’ boxing edge

SPEED was Justin Hodges’ greatest asset when he scored 99 tries for the Broncos and Roosters, and the Maroons rugby league great is relying on that athleticism in his professional boxing debut in Sydney tonight.

Hodges has dabbled in boxing for most of his life and at 36 says he’s thrilled to finally chase his dream against Ipswich tough guy Rob Baron.

His coach Garth Williams says the key to Hodges winning tonight and pursuing more fights in 2019 is not so much his speed but his professionalism. Williams had long been a coach of Queensland amateur boxing teams and was in Jeff Horn’s corner when the future world champ was fighting for a place at the world amateur titles in 2009.

Ten years ago, when Williams was embarking on his career as a fight trainer and wanting tips on how best to inspire his pupils, he wrote to then Broncos coach Wayne Bennett.

“I wanted to learn about man management and Wayne told me to come down to training whenever I wanted,’’ Williams said.

“I started forming relationships with Justin and some of the other Broncos, putting them through the punching pads. Justin started coming to train with me in the off-season or when he was injured and he’s been pretty constant in the boxing gym ever since.

“He’s a natural talent but the key to him winning fights is the discipline he learned in 16 years as a top footballer.

“He really works hard twice a day and he’s always encouraging guys in the gym. His attitude is that of an elite athlete. Even when he’s totally spent, it’s one, two, three and ready to go again.”