Human:42421

Marty Flynn is a young prospect who puts in long hours just to get to the gym and learn his craft.

   "To get good sparring I drive two hours each way to Joe Hand's Gym in Philadelphia two to three times a week," says undefeated middleweight Marty Flynn who lives in Scranton, PA and recently signed a promotional contract with Duva Boxing. "When I have a fight, I'm there every day for six weeks before the fight."

   There is also another Philly connection for Flynn. His co-managers are Richard Valenti and Philly's own Bernard Hopkins, the undisputed middleweight champion.

   Flynn is also a rarity in boxing. He graduated from Marywood University in Scranton, PA in 2000. He majored in legal studies and pre law. Flynn's degree will prepare him for life after boxing while he's still in the early stages of his boxing curriculum. Having Hopkins, as his co-manager, is definitely a plus. Flynn has even sparred with his boss.

   "The first day I did good," recalled Flynn, "but the second day, he carved."

   Even with the daily trek to Philadelphia, Flynn realizes it's all for the long haul.

   "I've been learning that hard work will get you there," said the self-proclaimed boxer/puncher who started boxing at age 18. The trio of Wade and Randy Hinnant and Jake Moskwa train Flynn. "I have heart and I like to hit and my best punch is my jab."

   The 26-year-old Flynn writes left handed, fights right handed, but eats "with both hands."

   Both of Flynn's grandfathers boxed and while in high school he wrestled, played baseball and football, but he loves his chosen sport.

   "Boxing is a business and it is a sport," he said. "I'm happy to have the right people behind me like Duva Boxing and Bernard Hopkins.

   "I seen guys from small towns, who were just street urchins, step it up and fight a top 20 fighter without having learned anything," stated Flynn. "They got carved and returned to their small towns. I want to learn as much as I can in boxing so when I fight for the title, I am ready to win."