Tre Hubbard, a 27-year-old from San Diego, CA, experienced a significant loss of confidence after leaving college football. This shift not only severed his athletic identity but also coincided with two tragic events that triggered his overeating behavior, leading him to reach 300 pounds. The turning point came when he realized his clothes no longer fit, prompting a life-altering telephone call. Here, Hubbard recounts his journey from personal despair to achieving a new body and life.
I WAS A Division I linebacker at Virginia Tech and Wagner College, grappling with overeating. However, consistent training kept my weight in check—until two pivotal events changed everything.
In December 2019, the abrupt loss of my friend and teammate, Clay Beathard, devastated me. Subsequently, the onset of COVID-19 led to a cessation of all athletic activities. With football being my identity, I felt broken, having lost both the game and a close companion.
Throughout 2020, my weight gradually climbed to 300 pounds. Isolated at home without a structured routine or direction, I succumbed to binge eating, allowing myself to fade into invisibility. I felt utterly alone during those dark days and struggled to recognize my mental, spiritual, and physical self.
My wake-up call arrived after an all-you-can-eat sushi meal when I recognized my clothes no longer fit. Upon purchasing a 2XL jacket, the realization hit me hard—I was ashamed and afraid to face myself in the mirror. Stepping on the scale confirmed my fears: I had gained 65 pounds in just six months.
That day, I reached out to my high school trainer, Tony Thompson, who welcomed me to his gym in Virginia Beach. My first visit changed everything; I met Sczar Charles, an amateur fighter who encouraged me to try MMA. Initially skeptical about my capabilities, I ultimately decided to trust the process, moving forward despite my fear.
The New Routine That Transformed His Mind and Body
I adopted a rigorous new routine, running two miles each morning and training at Train Hard daily. I committed to MMA training in the evenings, all while balancing online classes for my senior year. My trainers instilled a no-excuses mentality, emphasizing that drives me to push through challenges.
My diet became strict and monotonous, featuring lean proteins, rice, and vegetables. I meticulously measured everything I ate, fostering a sense of discipline that was crucial to my transformation. My faith also played a significant role, empowering me to build a resilient mindset.
Weight Loss and Boxing Wins
Over eight months, I shed 100 pounds, reaching a total loss of approximately 125 pounds. At 27, I feel more alive than I did as a college athlete, now understanding how to care for my body. Boxing further solidified my mental clarity and helped me redefine my identity.
Currently, I boast a record of 3-0 in boxing with two first-round knockouts, one achieved within the first six seconds of the match. Each fight represents not just athletic achievement but the culmination of my entire transformation journey, made possible by the support from my coaches.
My journey is far from over. Future aspirations include running a marathon, completing an Ironman, and joining Toastmasters to enhance my public speaking skills. I continually push myself beyond my comfort zone and share my story on platforms like TikTok and Instagram to inspire others facing similar struggles. Through my weight loss experience, I learned that conquering oneself is the first step to conquering the world.
