Behind the Scenes: Andrade vs Akavov - Photos by Melina Pizano/Matchroom Boxing - 01/18/19

While I love photographing the action in the ring, I'm grateful to photograph boxers behind the scenes. It not only gives me more of an opportunity to be creative, but I also get to see the boxer's head space before the tv cameras are on them, before the audience sounds reach their ears, before the bell rings and they step into action. Even though I don't interact with them I'm given the advantage to know them a little bit more than the public. Some rooms are filled with with music, some with talk and laughter, and some are so quiet that I hesitate to hit the shutter. I'm let into these intimate moments and while they may be brief I get what's needed (hand-wrapping is key) and try to capture a little creativity (I'm a little obsessed with reflections.) These are the behind the scenes.

All photos taken at Madison Square Garden in New York City on Friday, January 18, 2019.

Demetrius "Boo Boo" Andrade

Artur "Wolverine" Akavov was quite happy when he got a couch put into his dressing room. 

Pablo Cesar "El Demoledor" Cano

during their bout on Fri., Jan. 18, 2019 at the Hulu Theater. Mandatory Credit: Melina Pizano

Jorge "El Niño de Oro" Linares

during their bout on Fri., Jan. 18, 2019 at the Hulu Theater. Mandatory Credit: Melina Pizano

TJ "The Power" Doheny 

Chris Algieri

Amanda "The Real Deal" Serrano

Eva "The Golden Baby" Voraberger

Reshat Mati 

Julian Sosa