Boxing in Bobby Cassidy Jr.’s Blood

Bobby Cassidy Jr. has boxing woven into the very fabric of his life, both literally and metaphorically. His father was a renowned New York boxer who contended in the light heavyweight division during the 1970s.

Early Exposure to the Sport

“My father was a fighter, which meant I was introduced to boxing at a young age,” Cassidy recalled. He fondly remembers visiting the Gramercy Gym on 14th Street around age 10 or 11 with his brother Chris, where they met fighters like Edwin Chu Chu Malave and Mustafa Hamsho. Cassidy, who began his sportswriting career in 1987, cherishes those formative years spent with his father, managed by Paddy Flood, and recognizes how pivotal those experiences were in shaping his understanding of boxing as a solitary struggle where the fighter relies solely on himself.

A Legacy of Achievement

Cassidy’s father, born in 1944, had a professional boxing career that spanned from 1963 to 1980, finishing with an impressive record of 59-16-3 and 27 knockouts. Bobby Jr. has chronicled his father’s life in a play titled Kid Shamrock that premiered Off Broadway in 2007, and he has recently published a book celebrating his father’s remarkable journey.

Personal Triumphs and Relationships

“I’m thankful to Michael Dolan and WindingRoadStories for publishing my father’s story,” Cassidy said. His father was ranked No. 1 in the world as a light heavyweight in 1976 and formed friendships with many notable figures, including Robert De Niro and James Caan. He was inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame by Congressman Pete King and shared close ties with figures like Sonny Franzese and Joe Galizia.

Cassidy’s Writing Journey

Cassidy’s path from admiring his father to becoming a sportswriter took time. “I was fortunate to start at The Ring magazine, then moved to Newsday and briefly wrote for the New York Post,” he shared. He later returned to Newsday, where he adapted to changes in the industry, including the shift to digital storytelling and became skilled in video production thanks to his brother’s expertise.

Boxing’s Global Appeal

Today, Cassidy sees boxing entering a new era of popularity, spotlighting emerging stars like Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford along with international talents. “Boxing is becoming increasingly global,” he commented. “The sport is evolving, and women are significantly raising its profile.” Cassidy appreciates the authenticity of boxing, pointing out the dramatic moments that encapsulate pure competition.

Engaging with Boxers

Though he hasn’t covered boxing as frequently lately, Cassidy treasures the thrill of championship fights. He highlights that many boxers are approachable and have compelling stories to tell. “Boxers tend to be straightforward and often lack the layers of PR that other athletes have,” he noted, reminiscing about fascinating encounters with fighters and how their backgrounds resonate deeply with audiences.