Brooklyn, NY – The vibrant boxing scene of Brooklyn, a perennial incubator of world champions, continues to churn out talent with an insatiable appetite for glory. Among the rising contenders is Nikita Ababiy, the charismatic middleweight prospect known affectionately as "White Chocolate." In a candid interview, Ababiy, speaking through sportsamo.com, offers a compelling glimpse into his journey, his fighting philosophy, and his unwavering ambition to bring a championship belt back to his beloved borough.
Ababiy’s path to the squared circle began in the bustling streets of Brighton Beach, a melting pot of cultures where the echoes of boxing gyms were a constant backdrop. "Boxing was just always around," Ababiy recalls, painting a picture of a spirited youth whose boundless energy and need for discipline led him to the local gym. It was at the tender age of ten that he first donned gloves for a sanctioned bout, a moment that ignited a lifelong passion. "Once I put the gloves on, I never wanted to take them off," he admits, the fervor of that childhood revelation still palpable. This early immersion instilled a deep-seated connection to the sport, shaping his identity and providing a clear direction for his future.
With over 130 amateur fights under his belt, including a triumphant capture of the New York Golden Gloves in the 152 lb. open division, Ababiy developed a robust foundation. However, he eschewed the Olympic route, turning professional at 19. This decision stemmed from a clear understanding of his own fighting style. "My style was always more suited for the professional ranks," he explains. "I like to sit down on my punches, go to the body, break guys down." While acknowledging the value of amateur experience, Ababiy yearned for the raw, visceral exchanges that define professional boxing. "In the amateurs, you can outpoint people and move around, but I always wanted to hurt guys and put on a show." This aggressive, crowd-pleasing approach, he believes, is where he truly thrives.
The formative years in Brooklyn’s competitive boxing landscape provided invaluable experience, including sparring sessions with established stars. Notably, Ababiy shared the ring with fellow Brooklynite and former middleweight champion Danny Jacobs. "Sparring with Danny Jacobs was huge for me early on," he states, highlighting the mentorship and tough lessons learned from a seasoned world-class fighter. The Brooklyn gym scene, he asserts, is a breeding ground for killers, where every sparring session feels like a legitimate fight, sharpening the mettle of its participants. This intense environment forged Ababiy into a fighter accustomed to high-pressure situations.
Watching contemporaries like WBC featherweight champion Bruce "Shu Shu" Carrington and IBF super lightweight champion Richardson Hitchins achieve world title success has undoubtedly fueled Ababiy’s own ambition. While expressing pride in his fellow Brooklyn boxers, a palpable sense of anticipation underscores his words. "Of course, you want to be in that spotlight too," he says, a hint of frustration tinged with determination. "Those are my guys, and I’m proud of them, but at the same time, I know I belong right there with them." He acknowledges the unpredictable nature of the boxing business, where external factors can impede progress. Yet, he reframes these delays as catalysts for growth. "The hunger only gets stronger watching everybody else shine. My time is coming."
When asked to describe his fighting style, Ababiy evokes an appreciation for the old-school artistry of boxing. "I think I bring a little old-school flavor," he muses. "I love body punching like the greats used to do." While some observers have drawn comparisons to the legendary Roy Jones Jr. for his offensive prowess, Ababiy remains grounded, focused on forging his own unique identity. "Honestly, I’m just trying to create my own style – that ‘White Chocolate’ style." This distinctive moniker reflects his desire to be both a formidable force and an entertaining spectacle in the ring.
Ababiy’s dedication to the sport transcends mere competition; it’s a way of life. "No Boxing, No Life" is not just a slogan for him; it’s a profound truth. "Boxing gave me everything – discipline, purpose, and a way to express myself," he explains, articulating a deep emotional connection to the sport. His life has been meticulously structured around training and fighting since childhood, treating it as a full-time profession. "When I’m not training, I’m thinking about training. When I’m not fighting, I’m thinking about fighting." This singular focus underscores his commitment and the sacrifices he has made to pursue his dreams.
Outside the intense demands of training, Ababiy values simplicity and connection. He cherishes time with family and friends, enjoys observing fights to study the nuances of the game, and prioritizes recovery through stretching and saunas. The allure of the ocean in Florida, where he currently trains, also offers a peaceful respite. His musical tastes during training sessions are eclectic, leaning towards a blend of hip-hop and house music, providing an energetic soundtrack to his rigorous workouts.
Currently based in South Florida, training at BOXR Gym, Ababiy is immersing himself in a high-caliber environment. The presence of light heavyweight champion David Benavidez, also preparing for an upcoming bout, creates a synergistic atmosphere of dedication and ambition. "I’m loving it," he says of life in the "305." "The weather is amazing, the vibe is different, and there are a lot of serious fighters down there." He views this move as a strategic step towards "leveling up," drawing inspiration from the elite talent surrounding him.
A recent exhibition bout against the skilled Russian fighter Yuri Osipov provided a challenging, albeit instructive, experience. Despite losing a decision, Ababiy gained valuable insights, particularly regarding the importance of health and preparation. He candidly recounts the difficult circumstances surrounding the fight: arriving in Russia on short notice, falling seriously ill, and facing a demanding weight cut without proper hydration or nutrition. Even his coach, Andre Rozier, experienced a collapse due to the stressful conditions. While the financial incentive was a factor, Ababiy now acknowledges the unwisdom of competing under such compromised circumstances. "Although the match doesn’t count on my professional record, it was a valuable learning experience. If I ever take an exhibition again, I’ll make sure I’m properly prepared and put my health first."
Under the tutelage of legendary New York trainer Milton LaCroix at BOXR Gym, Ababiy is refining his craft. LaCroix, described as a "mastermind," is helping him tighten his defense, improve his angles, and enhance the setup of his signature body shots. While the inherent power remains, the focus is now on strategic application and becoming a more complete fighter. "The power has always been there, but now it’s about being smarter and more complete in the ring."
In an era where some fighters prioritize safe, tactical victories, Ababiy champions the entertainment aspect of boxing. He firmly believes that fans, who invest their hard-earned money, deserve an electrifying spectacle. "It’s huge. Fans spend their hard-earned money to watch us fight. They deserve excitement." His commitment to putting on a show, characterized by knockouts and punishing body work, is paramount. "When you watch White Chocolate, you know you’re getting a show."
Despite his southward migration for training, Ababiy’s heart remains firmly rooted in Brooklyn. He expresses profound gratitude for the unwavering support from his hometown fans, particularly the Russian community in Brighton Beach. "It means everything. Brighton Beach raised me. That community supported me from the beginning." He feels a deep sense of responsibility to represent his borough with pride.
Looking ahead, Ababiy issues a clear message to the middleweight division. While acknowledging his current training base in Florida, he assures his Brooklyn faithful that he is working diligently and will return stronger than ever. "To anybody in the middleweight division who thinks they’re safe… keep my name in mind. White Chocolate is coming, and when I get my shot, I’m taking the belt back to Brooklyn!" His words resonate with the grit, ambition, and unwavering pride that define the boxing spirit of Brooklyn.
