Metro Cigar News Winter 1998: An Interview with James "Buddy" McGirt

An Interview with Former Boxing World Champion
James "Buddy" McGirt

by Brian Dillon

MCN: Thanks for talking with us. To begin, we'd like to know how you got your nickname "Buddy"?
BM: My dad was Buddy, Sr. so I was called little Buddy. As I became a boxer "Little Buddy McGirt" didn't sound too intimidating, so the announcers were told to go with James "Buddy" McGirt.

MCN: How did you get involved in the sport of boxing?
BM: Well, I was too small for any other sports. My cousin had introduced me to the boxing scene and the rest is history.

MCN: How many years did you fight in the amateur division and what was your record?
BM:I fought in the amateur division for 6 years. My record was 54-9.

MCN: What year was it you turned pro and at what age were you?
BM: I turned pro in 1982 and I was just 19 years old.

MCN: What was your total record?
BM: 73-6-1 with 48 KO's.

MCN: What title did you own?
BM: The junior Welter Weight Championship and the Welter Weight Championship.

MCN: What year did you win the Junior Welter Weight belt?
BM: In 1988 I took my first belt.

MCN: When did you capture the second title?
BM: In 1991 I took the Welter Weight Championship of the World.

MCN: During your pro-career who was your manager and trainer?
BM: I had one of the best in the sport of boxing, Mr. Al Certo. He was my manager and trainer.

MCN: Are you still friendly with Certo?
BM: Oh yes, without a doubt. He is like a father to me. He is a big part of my family.

MCN: Do you miss being in the people's eye and on National TV, HBO, for example?
BM: No. I really enjoy the quiet life, but I do like to hang out with my friends.

MCN: Do you have any children?
BM: Yes. I have 6 children. The youngest is now 6 and the eldest is 15. I'd do anything for them, they're my life.

MCN: Do you get to spend much time with your children?
BM: Most of the time I spend with the kids is quality time. You know, all of my children have also been blessed with athletic ability. I'm always lending a helping hand to them whenever possible. But I always have to have my guard up with them... I don't want to get knocked out either, if you know what I mean!

MCN: Since your retirement what are you currently doing?
BM: I am a trainer. I train young hopefuls in three different gyms. In New York City, I train at Kings Way and The Blue Velvet, and in New Jersey I go to the Rocky Marciano gym.

MCN: When you were boxing professionally, who was the opponent you feared most?
BM: I never feared anyone because I never let anyone intimidate me. But I tell you right now, I was petrified of my mom and dad and older brother.

MCN: Did you ever expect the fame that you attained?
BM: No. I could care less as long as I live happy and comfortable. As long as I am able to help children because as you know they are the future. You see, it's not whether you win or lose the battle in life, it's the fun and time you put into whatever you are doing that matters. To tell you the truth, it really is how you play the game that counts.

MCN: You live in Brentwood, Long Island. Do you get recognized when you go to the store?
BM: Yes. As a matter of fact, just the other day I went in to buy a cigar and this man asked me for ID. When I showed him my driver's license he wanted to know if I was related to Buddy McGirt the boxer. I said yes, of course.

MCN: Speaking of cigars, did you smoke while you were traveling?
BM: You better believe it! I love my cigars. I never leave the house without a cigar in my pocket.

MCN: Do you prefer a special size smoke?
BM: Nope. Just give me cigars and I'm happy.

MCN: Buddy, what was your most memorable experience in your professional career?
BM: I'd have to say winning the Championship World Title against Frankie Warren and Simon Brown.

MCN: So Buddy, in the Boxing Industry are you everyone's "Buddy"?
BM: Well, I wouldn't go that far. In my ups and downs I have no regrets. I'd do it all over again the same way.