By Jake Donovan
As news hit of 50 Cent filing for both personal and corporate bankruptcy, the first thoughts among those in the boxing world (aside from jabs taken at the rapper/entrepreneur) was how it would affect those currently trapped under his SMS Promotions label.
The roster of fighters doesn't run very deep, but does include a hot prospect in Ryan Martin. The 22-year old unbeaten lightweight—born and raised in Chattanooga, Tenn. but who now fights out of Cleveland—was enjoying a steady stream of ring action, piling up 13 fights through his first 20 months in the pro ranks.
However, his career came to a screeching halt following his last ring apperance in May, save for quality sparring time with Shawn Porter in helping him prepare for an eventual win over Adrien Broner. While he is forced to wait out the terms of his existing promotional contract, Martin can take comfort in knowing the rest of his team is firmly in his corner.
Proof was offered when longtime manager Tim VanNewhouse decided to extend his managerial pact with the promising lightweight, even if it means coming on his own dime.
"Ryan’s been feeling a bit let down since learning the news of SMS. So I decided to renew our management agreement to help him feel more secure about his future," VanNewhouse informed BoxingScene.com. "I’m blessed to be able to help Ryan financially so that he’s able to focus 100 percent on boxing.
"He's a huge project in my life, dear to my heart and a very costly venture, however I’m confident Ryan has the full package to become a mega superstar."
A 1st round knockout of Ivan Zavala was the latest proof of his career potential. The feat came on the undercard of the May 9 show in Houston, in which fellow SMS fighter James Kirkland was drilled inside of three rounds by Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez.
The bout was Martin's third of the year following eight fights in 2014, his first full year in the pro ranks after having tunred pro towards the end of 2013. Nothing is in queue for the moment, nor has there been much communication made from his now estranged promoter.
Team Martin doesn't seem too concerned about getting his career back on track. While not yet in a legal position to field offers from other promoters, there is no shortage of available candidates if and when he eventually becomes a free agent.
"The remainder of the year will be interesting," comments VanNewhouse. "More importantly Ryan’s in good hands with a team that truly loves him."
Jake Donovan is the managing editor of BoxingScene.com. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox