Two-time champion David Morrell Jr. joined TheOnlyKayla Podcast for an in-depth conversation, delving into his Cuban upbringing, early exposure to boxing, and his preparations for a highly anticipated fight against David Benavidez on February 1. The discussion sheds light on his childhood, challenges, and the sacrifices that shaped him into the fighter he is today.
Morrell’s childhood memories are filled with joy and challenges. Growing up in Cuba, he fondly remembers the simple pleasures of playing street soccer, baseball, and flying kites with friends. His family, especially his grandmother and mother, played pivotal roles in shaping his character. Morrell reflects on the discipline his mother instilled in him, which, although not always appreciated in his youth, became invaluable as he matured. He shares how losing his grandmother made him cherish these memories even more, especially as he stays in close contact with his mother.
The spark for Morrell’s boxing journey came from watching his older brother’s boxing matches on television. By the age of eight, he had started practicing the sport casually, but it wasn’t until his late teens that he decided to take it seriously. While his youth was dominated by sports, his love for boxing eventually took precedence, transforming it from a hobby into a calling.
In 2017, Morrell made the life-altering decision to turn professional. He moved to Mexico, driven by the desire to provide a better life for his family, who were facing hardships in Cuba. The transition was difficult, but it marked a turning point in his career and personal life, as he sought a brighter future.
Reflecting on his first professional fight in the United States, Morrell recalls the immense pressure of competing at such a high level. Having recently won a gold medal in Cuba, he was eager to prove himself in Minnesota, but the experience was nerve-wracking. Morrell humorously recalls the challenges of language barriers, as he had to look up basic English phrases to navigate his new life and training.
As the February 1 fight against Benavidez approaches, Morrell is deep into one of his most intense training camps to date. Having trained in both Cuba and the U.S., he is fully committed to ensuring he is prepared for the tough challenge ahead. This fight is one that fans have been eagerly awaiting, and Morrell’s determination is evident as he discusses the rigorous preparation process.
Morrell shares how his mental approach to boxing has evolved over time. Early in his career, criticism from others affected him, but now he uses it as fuel to prove his doubters wrong. He’s learned to laugh off negativity and focus solely on his journey. With Benavidez’s fight on the horizon, Morrell has transitioned from preparing for a solid performance to being driven by the mindset of dominating his opponent, viewing the sport through a lens of competitive aggression.
Morrell has already claimed multiple titles, but his ultimate goal remains clear: to leave a lasting legacy in the boxing world. Inspired by legends like Mike Tyson and Roberto Durán, he plans to continue challenging bigger names, including potential moves to the 175-pound weight class. He speaks candidly about his willingness to drop back down to 168 pounds to face Edgar Berlanga, showcasing his commitment to facing the best in the sport.
At the heart of Morrell’s success is his unwavering motivation to provide a better life for his family. He speaks of the sacrifices his family made to get him to this point and vows never to return to the struggles of his past. His deep love for his family and the desire to set an example for his child continue to drive his ambition, pushing him to work tirelessly toward his ultimate goal: boxing greatness.
