Anthony Taylor's inspiring journey from homelessness to influencer boxing

From Stripping to Professional Fighting

Anthony Taylor, now known as one of the biggest boxing influencers in the world, had a journey filled with adversity and triumph. Before finding success in the world of influencer boxing, Taylor was 25 when he began training for MMA in 2013. Over the course of two years, he had over ten amateur bouts, showcasing his dedication and talent.

However, after moving to Los Angeles, Taylor faced tough times and found himself without a stable income or a place to call home. To make ends meet, he took a job as a stripper, highlighting the desperate situation he was in. Speaking about his past, Taylor revealed, "I was a stripper, I had nothing. I was homeless, nowhere to go and I was stripping. I was just enjoying life as a bum who had no goals, nothing."

Finding Opportunities and Overcoming Obstacles

Despite the challenges he faced, Taylor's life took a turn for the better when he relocated to LA to train with coach Antonio McKeee and his champion son AJ. It was AJ who got Taylor a job as a male stripper, and he excelled at it, earning up to $300 a night. However, Taylor was still without a home, sleeping on benches and couch-surfing to get by.

Reflecting on those difficult times, Taylor said, "Those times were low, the lowest times of my life. Having to endure that for such a long period of time really moulded the person I am now." Determined to never experience such hardships again, Taylor focused on building his own support network and honing his skills.

A Chance Encounter with Jake Paul

Taylor's MMA career started gaining momentum in 2018, and he was even on the brink of a deal with UFC. However, a phone call would change the course of his life. Jake Paul's coach, BJ Flores, reached out to Taylor and offered him a unique opportunity to become a sparring partner for the YouTube star turned boxer.

Choosing to join Paul's camp, Taylor temporarily shifted his focus from the UFC to crossover boxing. As part of Paul's team, Taylor helped the YouTuber prepare for his fights against ex-MMA champions Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley, increasing his own profile in the process.

Rising to Influencer Boxing Stardom

While Taylor may have stumbled into influencer boxing at the right time, he credits himself for his success. He said, "I give Jake credit for getting me into the game and I appreciate it. But also, I have to give myself credit because, yeah, he can put you on, but you have to keep doing what you’re doing so you can stay on."

Now, Taylor is set to fight on a Misfits Boxing card promoted by superstar KSI in Nashville. Facing off against rival Paul Bamba, he is confident of victory and believes he has seen everything Bamba has to offer in the ring. With a record of 5-3, Bamba poses no threat to Taylor's aspirations.

From a humble beginning as a homeless stripper, Anthony Taylor has overcome numerous obstacles and transformed his life through determination and talent. Today, he stands tall as one of the biggest influencers in the world of boxing.