Sindy Amador To Fight Anahi Torres in Corona, Ca.

Not everyone knows from the get-go that boxing will be their livelihood or that they’ll suffer financially because of it.

Ultra-petite Sindy Amador had no idea that a workout class that included punching would lead to winning the IFBA female junior flyweight world title.

Riverside’s first and only world champion, Amador (12-1) faces Mexico’s Anahi Torres (12-11) in a nontitle bout set for eight rounds on Friday, Aug. 22. The junior flyweight bout takes place at Omega Products International in Corona. Thompson Boxing Promotions is the promoter.

“It’s the best personal achievement in my life as an athlete,” said Amador, 30, who trains at Capital Punishment along with junior welterweight contender Mauricio “El Maestro” Herrera. “Everything about woman’s boxing is amazing to me. I have a lot of respect for every woman that steps in the boxing ring like me.”

Mexico City’s Torres has the same grit as Amador and has faced some of the best talent in the world, such as Mariana “Mexican Barbie” Juarez, Arely Mucino, and Anabel Ortiz. She handed undefeated Jasseth Noriega her first defeat after 17 pro fights.

“I know that my opponent is a tough fighter that comes forward and with a lot of experience,” said Amador. “It’s a new challenge and that’s what life’s about, to keep challenging yourself.”

Amador’s last challenge saw the Riverside fighter overcome a very talented Maria Suarez of Santa Maria, California. It was a back and forth exchange of fight philosophies as Suarez used her jab, longer arms and height to her advantage. Amador bored in looking to take away the height advantage. It was a see-saw battle that Amador won and an exciting top-flight world title challenge.

Financially, though, Amador has not benefitted from her world title.

“When you struggle for money and have a lack of support, it makes it really hard,” said the champion who stands 5-feet tall. “Sometimes I wonder if I’m doing the right thing. I could go and do something else that pays more money. I need to survive and pay bills and boxing is something that cannot do that at the moment.”

Amador has been unable to attract sponsors and sacrifices working hours to train daily. When not boxing, she works as a physical trainer at a workout fitness center. Sometimes purses can be as little as $1,500 for a world title fight.

“It’s hard to keep motivated but what keeps me going in boxing is the desire to be the best I can be,” said Amador who likes to cook, dance and spend time with family, and looks up to Mexican standout Juan Manuel Marquez. “I feel like my career has just started.”

That’s a true fighter.

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