Chico’s boxing champ

Chico native Ava Knight wasn’t nervous when she got into the ring in Colima, Mexico, Oct. 29 to battle undefeated International Boxing Federation flyweight champion Arely Mucino (14 wins, 0 losses, 1 tie). Though Knight’s record was not perfect (6 wins, 1 loss, 3 draws), she had confidently predicted a knockout for her scheduled 10-round fight. Knight, 23, was spot on and knocked Mucino out cold in the second round to become Chico’s first and only world boxing champion. She currently teaches boxing and has high hopes of starting her own business and getting her accounting degree. See more about her at www.OfficialAvaKnight.com.

How does it feel to be a world boxing champ?

It feels much better now than when I first won it. Becoming world champion was my main goal since I joined Chico Boxing for Fitness when I was 14. Right after the fight it was just another win until my friends and family got a chance to show me their respect and love.

How did you get into boxing?

By accident, really. I just wanted something to do as a teenager. The first time I entered the ring I got knocked down. That was the only time I’ve ever been knocked down by a girl. But I thought, “Wow, this is a real sport.” That showed me you need a hard head and the ability to take a punch to be a good boxer.

What are your other pursuits in life?

I teach boxing at In Motion Fitness and want to have my dad, who’s a boxing expert, help me. I also market special wrist bands called Improve Balance Bands, which allow your muscles to stretch better and reach their full potential.

How about your schooling?

Education is really important to me. I graduated from Pleasant Valley High and got my AA from Butte College in sociology and behavioral science, plus I’m close to getting one in business administration. I want to return to Butte and transfer to a four-year college to get my accounting degree.

What’s next for you?

I hope to fight again in 2012 and challenge ladies in the World Boxing Organization and World Boxing Council. I’m looking for sponsors to help with my expenses for traveling and training in the Bay Area. I’ll also be starting a business promoting my boxing career and selling health supplements that have worked for me, such as spirulina and chlorella. Eventually I want to become a personal trainer and start my own boxing gym.