Less than a month ago, North Philly's Jesse Hart made a head-turning pro debut on the undercard of the Pacquiao-Bradley fight in Las Vegas.
Hart, the son of legendary Philadelphia boxer Eugene "Cyclone" Hart, took all of 33 seconds to record a technical knockout against Manuel Eastman.
Hart, 23, will try to top that impressive feat Saturday night when he fights southpaw Steven Chadwick in a super middleweight bout in the Grand Ballroom at Bally's Atlantic City.
Don't let Hart's age or record fool you — this is an experienced fighter. Hopeful that a Summer Olympic gold would launch his professional career, Hart amassed 85 wins as an amateur.
He fell short of his London dream in devastating fashion, falling in a tight decision at the USA Boxing Championships this winter. Ask Hart if he has been able to convert his frustration into motivation in the ring and you will receive a resounding yes.
"Oh most definitely," the 6-2 Hart said. "Thirty-three seconds should tell you all you need to know. I don't want to leave it in the judges' hands no more. I don't want to let them make a mistake."
Hart was distraught after his failed Olympic bid and considered permanent retirement. After a few months away from the sport, he decided to throw himself full-speed into the professional ranks.
"We have moved on to bigger and better things," he said. "In 23 fights, I'm going to get a title shot. It worked out for the better, because in three years I know I can be a world champion. That is what I am looking for."
Jesse wants to become a Philly legend like his father, who is also his trainer. He knows that for now, he will have to do it one mid-level fight at a time.
"Steven Chadwick? I don't know how good he is, but I know I'm great," Hart said. "And I am coming to get him out of here."
