Javier “Bam Bam” Castanon Pro Debut!

Born in Elkton MD, Representing Martinsburg WV Bam is now 1-0 1KO following his 2nd round stoppage Victory earlier this year in February. Bam has a unique story. His amateur background isn't extensive, he started relatively late in the game at the age of 19 but has a hunger for the sport that pushes him to be great. Bam credits his start in boxing to local professional undefeated fighter Chris "ThaBluePrint" Glenn who brought him to Hagerstown Boxing Club to check it out. After the first day Bam fell in love with the sport and has been working on his fight game ever since. I asked Bam what he loves about boxing he said "being in the gym keeps him out of trouble, gives him something to do and gives his family something to be proud of him for doing." Bam is half Puerto Rican and half Black. Representing his Puerto Rican heritage is important to him. He says, "not many Puerto Rican and Black people know how to speak Spanish, but it is important to represent who I am and where I'm from and my family." Bam puts a huge emphasis on his family, he still has family back home in Puerto Rico that he is extremely proud of. He is also extremely proud of representing Martinsburg WV. Martinsburg is well known for churning out athletes in every sport. Football, basketball, etc. rarely do you see boxers come out of Martinsburg. Bam Carries that crown with pride he says, " not a lot of people back home know I fight or that I'm serious. I want to show them that I'm for real in the sport."

What I like about Bam, is he isn't afraid to test himself in the gym. I asked him what stands out the most about about his game? Bam replied, " I fight. Whether I look bad in sparring or I'm doing really good, I can learn what to do and what not to do and what works for me. I'm not afraid to lose and I'll fight anyone. I just like to fight that's what stands out most to me." Bam has the heart of a warrior and is carrying the pride of his hometown and family on his back. He wants to continue to make statements in the sport of boxing and show everyone in the area he is a real contender in boxing.

His pro debut was nothing less than a success. I asked Bam what his emotions were at the time of the fight. He said, " I was nervous so I came out fast. Once I was able to calm down I landed a shot to liver that hurt him, then I was able to get the stoppage." Pro debut, 2nd round stoppage. What a way to start your career as a young professional. If you have seen Bam fight you can tell he has skill and promise to go far in boxing. The second round stoppage in his first fight has fueled Bam even more to stay in the gym and continue to grow as a fighter.

You can follow Bam and his boxing journey on Instagram @Bammy_

I am excited to see where his career goes from here. Bam has a lot to fight for and is fighting for all of the right reasons. The heart and fearlessness he has shown at such an early point in his career will prove to be monumental as he climbs the ranks and continues to put on performances for his friends, family and fans across the area.