FORMER WORLD MIDDLEWEIGHT champion Peter ‘Kid Chocolate’ Quillin has described how an emotional year outside the ring inspired him to reach new heights.
The undefeated American is ready to end Andy Lee’s world title reign after just four short months when they meet in New York on Saturday night.
Quillin first won the WBO crown held by Lee in 2012 but after three successful defences, he vacated it last year to deal with personal issues.
His first son Joaquin was born in the summer but at the same time, Quillin was coming to terms with his uncle Eric’s fight against cancer.
In the circumstances, defending his title and unbeaten record against Matt Korobov was unthinkable. He vacated the belt, paving the way for Lee who stepped in and KOd the Russian to become world champion.
Eric Munson died in February, aged 57, but such was Quillin’s determination to regain his belt that he didn’t leave his training camp to attend the funeral.
“I’d never had a family member pass away with cancer so it was hard doing that,” he said, “but I learned what fighting was all about when you’re fighting for your life and you have to come out with the fight that you may not live no more.
Of course being a father made me more inspired, and watching my uncle pass has made me more motivated about living and accomplishing the most I can.
Giving up his hard-earned gold was a tough decision to make, he admits.
“I think that’s what brought me to where I’m at right now, being able to make tough decisions all the time. People think losing is easy but try winning all time and see the pressures it brings.
When I gave up that belt, it really told me who were my friends and who was there for me.
Quillin is the red-hot favourite for Saturday night’s showdown in the Barclays Center, Brooklyn — a venue which is within walking distance of his house and where he has already fought twice before.
“One punch can end the whole fight,” he said.
“I’m getting paid for 12 rounds so I’m prepared to go 12 rounds but I don’t get paid for overtime so if I can get him out of there early, I will.”
– Audio courtesy of Live 95FM
