Boxing Punchlines: Jasmin Harmitt
Jasmin Harmitt, lightweight, aged 26, from Dudley Port, 1-0
You came from an MMA background. Tell us about that?
I was a kickboxer for nine years. I accomplished a lot, from winning title fights to teaching/coaching the kids from the age of four-years-old, as well as the juniors and adult. But after Covid hit I decided I needed a new path that was going to test me. I had two fights in MMA (1-1-0), but realised the ground-work wasn't my strong point. I was better on my feet, so decided boxing was the next option. I enjoyed it from the start.
Tell us about your pro debut
My debut was amazing. Nerves kicked in early before I arrived at the venue, but that was to be expected. It was great to have my son and partner in the changing rooms with me. Having my mum, dad, brother (who have always been supportive) and friends there to watch was amazing. The fight itself was great, I felt sharp and fit. The nerves kicked back in at the end of the third round and into the fourth. But I took a lot from the fight, my opponent was tough, but I didn't expect anything less. It’s an experience I will never forget. (Jasmin won a four rounds points decision over Angelika Oles in June).
Tell us about your training team
There’s my coach Aaron Cope, he is the owner of Southpaw Boxing Gym. He got me to turn pro after eight fights with him. He makes sure I know which days are my training days and which days I run on, organising sparring with pros who will test me, like Jessica Barry. He works me hard in the gym and pushes me to always do better. He has never given me easy fights (which I'm glad about because I like to be tested).
How would you describe your style?
I've always been a counter fighter and I don't mind getting into a bit of a brawl if needed. But with each camp I am developing into a different fighter able to come forward and take control.
Is the lightweight division where you see your future?
I like the category I am in, I feel comfortable and strong at that weight. I wouldn't mind going up in weight if there are fights there to be had. But I'm not comfortable lower than 63kg.
Are you looking to get out again as soon as possible?
I definitely want to get out before the end of the year, maybe twice if the right fights come along.
What is your ultimate goal ?
To get as many fights under my belt as possible. There are a few people I would like to fight, and there is definitely a few I would love to spar (Natasha Jonas and Chantelle Cameron). But I would love to win a belt in boxing, as this is something I am doing for my son; to show him that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.
What’s the best advice you could give someone looking to begin a professional boxing career?
I would say just go for it, it's a great experience and it’s something you will never forget. Obviously, the training steps up and you have more to think about in terms of diet, camp and your fitness, but when you start seeing the results it’s worth it.
Interview by DEREK FITZPATRICK