Ismael Villarreal On Building His Career, Fighting With Family

Fighting is in Ismael Villarreal’s blood. The 23-year-old middleweight has been training to compete since he was eight, thanks to his father and former boxer Otilio Villarreal. The Bronx native became an active competitor in 2017 and is 8-0.

As an amateur, Ismael was 66-7. The transition to fighting full-time can always be a challenge, and Villarreal told FIGHT SPORTS he still has a lot to learn. Looking to reach his full potential, the man with four wins via knockout is willing to do whatever it takes to get to the top. That includes understanding the mental game of boxing, not just the physical aspect of it. He believes that is possible with his dad as his trainer.

Check out this FIGHT SPORTS exclusive, where Villarreal discusses his hopes to be a ranked fighter within the next few years, what fight he enjoys watching the most, and more.