Ghost Whitehall jumps up and down, dripping sweat. Pulled into the middle of the ring to face their opponent, and with one look and a smirk from Whitehall, the match begins.

When quarantine began in the spring of 2020, Whitehall realized they wanted to become a part of a community. Inspired by the movie Rocky, they acquired a newfound passion.

“I watched the movie Rocky, and wanted to be a part of the background he came from,” Whitehall said.

They understood boxing would be a transformative period of their life and take a lot of work.

“Working out was not one of my priorities until I found what it took to become a boxer,” Whitehall said.

Whitehall’s parents were afraid of the negative aspects of the boxing community, but Whitehall knew what they were getting themselves into.  

“I love to see Ghost grow and learn from each match with such dedication and willingness to learn,” Whitehall’s mother, Jessica Whitehall, said. However, it’s very scary watching them practice, even more during matches.” 

Whitehall was determined to pursue a boxing career, and even with doubts her parents found the good within it. 

“I started my career with a coach and boxing gloves,” Whitehall said.

Whitehall’s first practice was nerve racking, but they knew this was the start of everything. 

 It takes effort, bodybuilding, and patience to progress as a boxer.

“I practiced every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and quickly became part of a competitive team,” Whitehall said. “I now practice every day of the week.”

Whitehall’s coach, Bailey Kramer, not only thinks Whitehall is an aggressive athlete but has what it takes to go far.

“Ghost has shown a very high level of perseverance, resilience, and humbleness,” Kramer said.

Whitehall uses they/them pronouns, which opens the door to boxing against both girls and boys. They aren’t afraid to compete against anyone, and are up for the challenge no matter who their opponent is.

“I would fight against anyone, because I spar against all the dudes at my gym, and very few females,” Whitehall said. 

Whitehall’s team takes salsa dancing classes as a cross-training workout because it teaches boxers flexibility, self control and helps improve their balance.

According to Eurosport, Salsa dancing helps boxers improve their balance, flexibility, and self control.

“Salsa is great to learn how to move your feet a certain way,” Whitehall said.

Boxing has assisted Whitehall in finding the courage to try new things, and working towards bettering themself at something they love.

“Boxing is something I never thought I would have gotten into, but I’m now ready to move forward into the future with it as my career,” Whitehall said.