The Rise of “Poison” Ivy Enriquez in Boxing
A vibrant sea of red bandanas showcasing the name “Poison” Ivy Enriquez filled the crowd at Memorial Gym in February, marking the debut of the 18-year-old in her professional boxing career. All her years of practice and determination culminated in her role as the co-main event of the evening.
In a thrilling sequence of four bouts, Enriquez emerged victorious, earning her first professional win. This triumph came just before she was set to celebrate another major milestone: her high school graduation.
Balancing Academics and Boxing
As a senior at Bel Air High School, Enriquez has carved out a significant niche in both athletics and academics. “I’ve adapted well since boxing has been a part of my life from a young age alongside school. My priorities have always been clear: school first, then boxing,” said Enriquez. However, she acknowledges the increased intensity and discipline required since turning professional. “It’s demanding, but I know I can handle it,” she added.
Despite the imminent graduation, Enriquez recently celebrated her second professional victory in Odessa, Texas. She credits her ability to juggle both pursuits to the unwavering support of her family. “My dad encourages me, saying he believes I will one day be a world champion,” Enriquez shared.
Future Aspirations
On the verge of graduating, Enriquez aspires to become a dental hygienist, planning to start her education at El Paso Community College. She dreams of ascending to an orthodontist role in the future and hopes to open a gym with her father to train aspiring boxers. “Sharing my love for boxing with my friends brings me immense joy,” she expressed.
Another Rising Star: Moises Rodriguez
Moises Rodriguez, another talented athlete in the Borderland, has been boxing since age 8 and has over 200 fights under his belt. He described the challenge of balancing school and boxing, especially when competing in national events. “Returning from competitions often meant catching up on missed schoolwork,” Rodriguez noted. “But to excel in boxing, sacrifices must be made.”
Long-Term Goals
Looking ahead, Rodriguez aims to participate in the 2028 Olympics with Team USA and pursue a professional boxing career. After graduating from El Dorado High School, he plans to join the U.S. Military’s World Class Athlete Program, allowing him to maintain military duties while training for Olympic events.
Emphasizing Discipline and Humility
Dominic Rodriguez, a senior at Montwood High School, adds to the narrative of tenacity in boxing. Having trained since he was 7, he has also balanced his passion with other sports, honing his discipline at Warrior’s Edge Gym. “Boxing has instilled focus in my life,” he said, reinforcing that academics come first to continue pursuing his passion.
As graduation nears, these young boxers show remarkable dedication to their craft. Despite the challenges of intense training and schoolwork, they exemplify perseverance and commitment, eager to tackle the future with confidence and ambition.
