By Allen Hmiel: Once a Champion at a young age and the pride of Youngstown Ohio, a dilapidated rundown old steel mill town with proud people battered down by unemployment and lack of opportunity, the only hope seemed to ride on the slim shoulders of a fighting Middleweight Champion who captured the hearts and dreams of those just hanging on existing on faded memories and dreams of what once was a vibrant existence. Pavlik had it all fame money glory a Championship belt world wide recognition and celebrity status bordering on royalty in his home town. Kelly was the King of Youngstown and took pride in his city living there and building his Championship kingdom within the confines of this battered rusted city.

Opponents in the ring were not Kelly’s biggest foe but Alcohol was tougher on him than Martinez ever was or Hopkins. Drinking overtook Kelly’s life to the point where he recently was admitted to Betty Ford Rehab center to save him. Boxing foes were nothing compared to the life challenges the two fisted battering blows from alcohol seemed to deliver on this once promising world class champion. Kelly is now in the biggest fight of his life an opponent much tougher than whatever Martinez or Hopkins could render. An opponent who neither cares what happens to you or if you live or die or never regain what you once had.

There are no three minute rounds or one minute rest periods in this battle Pavlik is now fighting but only the chance to dig deep and find the courage and the willpower to fight back against overwhelming odds and the chance to live again. No manager or trainer or promoter needed for Kelly in this challenging battle just family, faith, and a belief in himself that he is worth it. My bet is Kelly comes back a new man dedicated to being a proud family man a good friend and a community leader championing the causes of his proud city Youngstown. Boxing will be important but taking second place to his new found sobriety and willingness to be the best person he can be. That’s a titlebelt you wear in your heart.and not around your waist.