If you're unfamiliar with me, my name is Matt Goddard. With a 7-0 pro boxing record, I faced an unexpected early retirement due to medical reasons. What could have felt like a career-ending setback turned into the start of a brand-new chapter. Today, I run a thriving boxing gym in Hampshire, have a following of over 300K on Instagram and 60K+ on TikTok, manage a successful website, and have even authored a book on boxing. Along the way, I’ve learned that building a successful boxing career isn’t just about winning in the ring—it’s about planning for life beyond it.
Here are the top five strategies that helped me make that shift from boxer to business owner, social media influencer, and entrepreneur. These are the same steps I recommend for aspiring boxers who want to maximize their earnings, opportunities, and future options both inside and outside the ring.
1. Dedicate 5 Hours Daily to Your Craft
Success in boxing doesn’t come from occasional efforts; it requires a consistent, daily commitment to excellence. To truly stand out, dedicate 2-3 hours each day to training, including runs, strength and conditioning, and technique. Follow that with 1 hour of film study to understand opponents, refine your technique, and build better strategies. Finally, invest 1 hour in recovery, using practices like meditation, sauna, breathing exercises, or ice baths to reset and recharge your body and mind.
The physical demands are huge, and staying consistent with this regimen is what separates good fighters from the great. Your daily discipline will ultimately shape your career.
2. Build Your Profile with Social Media
In today’s digital world, boxing is no longer just about skills in the ring. It’s also about building a public profile. Fans are hungry for the real you, so share snippets of your journey—training routines, nutrition habits, business moves, and even personal milestones. Engaging content doesn’t just give fans a sense of connection, but it also attracts sponsors and promoters who recognize the value of a boxer with an audience.
Remember, promoters love ticket sellers, and having a dedicated following helps make you marketable. Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to build your brand, inspire followers, and create future business opportunities beyond your time in the ring.
3. Learn Beyond the Ring
Understanding boxing isn’t enough; expand your knowledge in related areas like fitness, nutrition, biomechanics, and strength and conditioning (S&C). Not only will this help you train smarter and avoid injury, but it also prepares you for business ventures beyond boxing. Studying these fields can give you more credibility, whether you're helping others through training programs or exploring a career as a coach, nutritionist, or S&C expert.
Use the hours you’re not training to study and develop these skills. Knowledge truly is power, and these insights can transform you from a boxer into an authority in the fitness world.
4. Get Certified
Don’t underestimate the value of certifications. Professional qualifications in areas like boxing coaching, nutrition, strength and conditioning, personal training (PT), and physiotherapy are investments that can pay off in multiple ways. These credentials not only help you train better personally but also allow you to work and earn around your training schedule.
Certifications add to your credibility and give you options for a sustainable income after your boxing career. Whether you’re teaching, consulting, or launching an online course, having the credentials to back up your expertise opens doors that extend well beyond the ring.
5. Protect Your Worth & Trust Carefully
The boxing world is tough—and not just in the ring. Sadly, 99% of people you encounter in the industry will see you as a commodity rather than a person. Remember that you’re the primary guardian of your career, so guard your worth carefully. Invest your time, energy, and trust only in relationships or opportunities that offer a clear benefit to your career, finances, or personal well-being.
Building a team is important, but always remember that your loyalty should lie first with yourself and your goals. Stay grounded, assess each opportunity critically, and don’t give too much of yourself unless it’s worth the return.
Final Thoughts
From professional boxer to business owner and influencer, I’ve experienced both the highs and lows of the boxing world. Boxing careers are temporary, but your potential for success after boxing can last a lifetime. Start building your foundation now, so you won’t be left searching for purpose after your last fight.
Social Media
If you are a boxing fan, a fan of a specific fighter or a fan of my work and want to support, please follow me/subscribe to me on all of my Social Media channels:
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/theboxinglocker/
TWITTER: https://x.com/BoxingLocker
WEBSITE: www.TBLTrainingPlans.com
BOXING FITNESS COURSE: https://boxfitblueprint.com/
Thanks!
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