people were sent to hospital with
injuries.
With no previous animosity between
the two fighters, and no apology
offered following the incident, Cook
continues to shrug off the aftermath
and get focused on what he hopes
will be his first big break south of
the boarder. His first big fight in the
United States could score Cook and
his team a six figure pay day.
An opportunity of that magnitude
would surely get him one step closer
to his dreams. It would also ease the
burden of having to take time off
from his day job to train for fights.
Cook took seven unpaid weeks off
to prepare for his recent win, which
netted him less than $10,000.
Though the man himself looks up to legendary fighters
RUS S I AN
BRI D ES®
As he continues to reflect on his accomplishments in
the ring, Brandon Cook is grateful that he can have
an influence on teens who are struggling to find their
way. That he can prevent them from going down the
treacherous paths that young guys like him all too often
choose to venture through growing up in Scarborough.
“Never give up, says Cook. A lot of people quit but I always
try to push my limits. It’s always tough when things aren’t
going your way but as long as you don’t give up, you’re
giving yourself a chance to succeed. I always put in 110%.
Always work harder than the other guy.”
While that may sound like a lot of money, Cook and many
other Canadian boxers would readily acknowledge that
it’s tough to make a living as a fighter in this country.
Canadian companies simply don’t offer the same level of
sponsorship support that elite boxers in America get. Yet
still, Cook continues to persist through all of the adversity
he faced as a teen walking down the wrong path, moving
forward with an unbridled enthusiasm. All in the name of
making his dreams a reality.
HO T
like Mike Tyson and modern day superstars like Canelo
Alvarez, Cook has set a great example for others through
his own story of perseverance and determination. He
credits the sport of boxing for allowing him to discover
both his passion and purpose in life. Spending a few
minutes talking to him, it’s easy to tell that Cook would
be the first person to thank those close to him for his
success in the ring. That includes his team at United
Boxing Promotions, namely Mike Guyett, Tyler Bruxton,
Gord McPhale and cut man Carlos Carrera.
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It’s his sense of belief and an impeccably positive attitude
that has seen Cook rise to the top five in the WBA
rankings for his weight class. He continually strives to
succeed every time the next opportunity presents itself.
Just a few weeks removed from his most recent victory,
he doesn’t quite know for sure when or where his next
bout will take place. What is certain is that somewhere in
Ajax, Ontario well before the sun rises, Brandon Cook will
be up running, skipping and fighting for the right to live
his dream and someday be crowned a world champion.
M EN’S
L IFESTYL E
M A G A ZINE
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