Joey “The Celtic Predator” Hefferle: Floyd Mayweather, JR, Boxing and Family
Exclusive Interview by Carrie Riedel
“I have a strong passion for this sport! It grew on me since I started.”—Joey Hefferle
I met Joey Hefferle and his Coach, Shannon States (State Boxing) while they trained at the same gym I ran and taught Kickboxing at. From our first meeting, I was very taken by his humility, kindness and dedication to not only himself and his career, but to all those around him.
In this day and age, as the sport of Boxing has evolved into so many other forms of Combat Sports, it’s very rare to come across the caliber of a sportsman and fighter that in my book, Joey embodies. His skills are refined, with a fierce fighting style. Hefferle’s raw determination alone makes him a force to be reckoned with.
CR: So, how does it feel to actually call yourself a Pro Boxer?
It feels great! I have been working at this for a long time and its finally here. All I can say is hard work pays off.
CR: You won your debut fight in less than 90 seconds in the first round. Can you describe that feeling?
It was very exciting. I love to perform in front of all my family, friends and fans. A lot of my family lives out of state so they don’t get to see a lot of what I do except for what they see on the internet. I was excited to perform in front of everybody, it definitely gave me the momentum to stay even more focused on what I had to do.
CR: Is there a favorite boxer that has always inspired you?
There are many fighters I like. I don’t have just one favorite. It’s good to look at fighters you like and try and mimic things they do that catch your eye. If I had to pick, no doubt, Floyd Mayweather, JR., Miguel Cotto, Paulie Malignaggi, and hats off to Bernard Hopkins. At his age, to have that kind of talent to keep going inspires me.
CR: What makes you stand out above all the rest?
My dedication, work ethic and motivation to win. I do not like to lose!
CR: So, you’ve become infamous for your outfits. Can you tell me how that came to be and where you come up with the ideas for each one?
One of my favorite classes in high school was art. I like to be creative and be different than everybody else. I wanted to give myself an image that nobody would forget. And that’s my goal every time I walk out. I try and design all my outfits with eye catching fabric. I like to be flashy. I feel like if you look good you’ll perform good!
CR: What’s next for you?
Bigger and better things and to give the fans what they want to see.
CR: What drives you to keep such amazing dedication and discipline to come as far as you have in this sport?
I have a strong passion for this sport. It grew on me since I started. I love to work out. Staying in shape is my goal in life. What drives me is to be on top. I will be world champ one day!
CR: How did you end up at State Boxing?
One of my childhood buddies was a street fighter and got into boxing cause he liked to fight. Him and another friend tried it and told me to come check it out. I was big into football at the time but I figured I would try something new. I immediately fell in love with the sport. I’ve stayed with it all this time and put in all this work over the years because it’s what I love. It’s became a part of who I am. Boxing has made me what I am today.
CR: As a Coach, how does Shannon bring out the best in you as a fighter?
His dedication, work ethic and knowing all the ins and outs of the sport makes him an unbelievable coach. Him investing all of this in me over the years has brought out the fighter in me.
CR: Is there anyone you would like to thank that has made an impact on your fighting career or motivates your life in general? If so, who and why?
My coach has made a huge impact on me as a fighter over the years along with day to day life. He motivates me to become better, to be the best. I look up to him. He is my mentor and inspiration. My coach is like a second Dad to me. My Dad motivates me every day as well, to be a good person in life. He’s taught me from the beginning.
CR: Do you have any inspirational words for the RSR readers or other boxers out there that are struggling to get to the top?
If you have a dream keep working towards it! Sometimes life takes you down roads that might be bumpy. Just remember what you’re working for. God puts people in your life for a reason. When you find something you’re good at stick with it. Remember you only get one chance.
You can interact with Joey by visiting his FB Page.
Joey Hefferle
Professional Record: 3-1, 3 KO’s
Division: Light Welterweight
Date Opponent W-L-D Location Result
2014-11-29 Fred Bowen 3-1-1 Hammond, US L TKO 3
2014-09-19 Andrew Greening 0-0-0 Hammond, US W TKO 1
2014-03-07 Michael Pickett 1-6-0 Elk Grove, US W KO 2
2014-01-31 Justin Gauthier 0-2-0 Elk Grove Village, US W KO 1
