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“The Future” is a term thrown around rather casually these days to hype up young prospects who show flashes of brilliance and prodigy-like
potential. So when I clicked on a YouTube video getting considerable buzz of Kenton Sippio Cook titled “The Future of Boxing” – I was admittedly skeptical. However, as I analyzed the video and saw Cook’s work in the gym, I became intrigued. As he drilled into sparring partners, Cook displays a sophisticated warrior demeanor despite barely being in his 20s. With his use of range, distance, and an ability to put together blistering combinations behind a pole-like jab, Cook seems built for the professional game where his superior technique and power can make more of an impact, free of tedious Olympic-scoring and headgear that considerably lessons the impact of power shots.
Despite losing to Luis Arias in the 165-pound final of the Last Chance Qualifier to earn a shot at the Olympic trials, the young pugilist from Round Rock, Texas is full of promise. As an amateur and a young fighter, Cook has been nothing short of dominant. He’s ranked top ten in the nation in his weight-class, which includes a #1 ranking in Texas – where he represented the Lone Star state at the National Golden Gloves, became champion, and shone so bright that he earned a shot at the Olympic qualifiers.
Cook clearly has the technical wherewithal to make noise in the professional ranks. Equally as captivating is Cook’s personality,
which is bright-eyed, confident, and built for the highlight reel. While we continue to hunt for the next American boxing superstar, young talents like Cook can calm fears that boxing is a lost-art in North America. Beyond being impressed with Cook’s already glittery boxing resume and skill-sets displayed in sparring sessions, it’s refreshing to see a gifted young athlete passionate about boxing and determined to make noise.
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