Jahmal Harvey

Harvey in his first international tournament won gold defeating Serik Temirzhanov, Samuel Kistohurry, and Mirazizbek Mirzakhalilov, all of whom competed at the 2020 Olympics – keep in mind he did this all while being the youngest fighter on the team despite the telecast constantly confusing his age, and at times, sadly his name. 

Harvey, who has the nickname “Hard Rock”, like the popular fast-food chain, feels to be the next great American Olympian, and is more than likely America’s best chance in 2024 to get an Olympic gold medal in the men’s division, as we haven’t gotten one since Andre Ward in 2004….that would be a 20-year gap. 

Harvey is a good boxer, with great reflexes, but what makes him special is his meanness, incredible instincts around what a fighter is doing and how to adjust, and his ability to win at all costs. 

Harvey is beating fighters currently that we have struggled as a team to consistently beat, and he is doing upon his first try, as young guy, fighting guys nearly double his age. Harvey is looking to be the face of American boxing moving forward.

Harvey is a superstar-in-the-making. 

Honorable Mention: 

Omari Jones – One of the best counter punchers in the country and has the ability to punch with his opponents as well. Jones is someone who you can never doubt, and I think has one of the highest pro ceilings as his style of fighting gets better later into the fights, something that has been a disservice to him in the amateurs. Balancing college and Team USA Boxing, Jones is top-tier.

Rahim Gonzales – Gonzales will always be a top-tier fighter, whether amateur or pro, his work ethic is second to none and his love of the game is matched with that one of a kind work ethic. Gonzales has elite attributes, such as hand-speed and ring IQ, and he loves the game as much as anyone. Gonzales won gold along with Harvey in international competition and came back from a standing-eight count to dramatically give his opponent a standing eight count in the final round.

Steven Navarro – Rarely do you see young people who are as talented as Steven Navarro in which the talent meets the conditioning. Navarro checks all the boxes to be someone to keep your eye on for years to come. 

Justin Viloria – The best lead left hook quite possibly in boxing. Not sure if he will stay in the amateur system, but has a fun and exciting fighting style that is worth mentioning, and has burst on the scene with an amazing performance at the final nationals of the year in December.