The Tocumwal-based boxing trainer started boxing himself as a way to keep fit when he finished his club rugby career in Melbourne six years ago.
Since then, the 33 year-old has fallen in love with the sport and stepped into the ring four times.
His most recent bout was on Sunday in Melbourne.
“Keeping fit and healthy was the goal,” Yates said.
Now having fought in both the cruiser and heavyweight classes, and finding only success, Yates is aiming to secure a championship bout for his next fight.
“I’m not sure exactly when, but I am definitely hoping and looking for a title fight,” he said.
With these exciting prospects on the horizon and a strong support team around him, Yates will be working hard to ensure he is ready for his next bout.
Real Deal Boxing gym in Moorabin is where Yates has had the opportunity to attend fight camps and fight preparation.
“We will usually train every day of the week, except a recovery day on the Sunday, and we have two or three sparring sessions across the week,” Yates explains of the rigorous schedule.
Not unlike any other sport, coaches play a key role in a boxer’s training and career.
Their wisdom and experience can put an athlete in good stead.
For Yates, that sounding board is Christian Ennor from Real Deal Boxing.
Yates said he has been paramount in his boxing journey to date.
But the hard work Yates is prepared to put in is also key to his successes so far.
He is sharing some of his own learnings and techniques with his home community, through Trigger Performance in Tocumwal.
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