Gervonta Davis’ Trainer Aims to Raise Funds for Noble Cause, Requests Boxing Reporters to Abide by His Plea

Gervonta Davis (now Abdul Wahid) has a real battle lined up in June. But currently he is engaged in a virtual one against former mentor and promoter Floyd Mayweather Jr. So his hands might be tied up. Then, how does it stand for Calvin Ford? ‘Tank’s long-time trainer would be busy gearing up for the big task that lies ahead on June 15. However, the hectic schedule hasn’t prevented Ford from pursuing a noble cause dear to his heart.

Calvin Ford, reportedly the inspiration behind the character of ‘Cutty’ from the hit HBO series ‘The Wire’, took to his Instagram handle to share an update for boxing reporters and journalists. But it also spoke about an initiative. If it comes to fruition, then it would seemingly go a long way toward helping young, aspiring amateur boxers.

Calvin Ford: A Lifetime Devoted to Caring

‘For ALL interview request from Coach Calvin Ford, please call XXX XXX XXXX,” read the first sentence of the Instagram post. Then it mentioned a call to action for a non-profit that Ford runs. “All Coach Calvin Ford is requesting is that you prepare to donate to his nonprofit organization, Rize Inc., that has been established to purchase a bus for transporting Amateur fighters to and from fights,” the message stated.

Finally, it said, “It takes a village to raise a child! Thank you in advance, @coachcalvinford, @rize_inc, @therizepodcast. Grab your slot asap.” Most of those who responded back with comments lauded Ford’s efforts. However, a few couldn’t prevent themselves from taking potshots.

For instance, this follower admired Ford for always being there for youngsters, especially kids. “Honorable Calvin. Always lookin out for the shorties,” they said. But then this one pointed out, “Stop asking poor ppl for money to buy a bus; you were poor once. Ask Tank to buy the bus or Floyd; he has seven hundred million dollars in one that he says he plays with, ask him. Tank is giving you enough money also to buy that bus you just want to save your.”

After last year’s eventful round-up of Ryan Garcia, ‘Tank’, and Calvin Ford, they once again team up to face Frank Martin‘s challenge on June 15. The clash for the Baltimorean’s lightweight title occurs at the MGM Grand Arena. The main event co-features David Benavidez‘s light heavyweight debut as well.

Calvin Ford has been through many trials and tribulations. As much as it involved legal entanglements, his life also narrates the story of his change from a life in the streets to one of nurturing.

Brushes with the Law and Passage to Duty

Early in January, news of Calvin Ford’s arrest shook the boxing world. Police took into custody the celebrated trainer, who, alongside Kenny Ellis, runs the Uptown Boxing Gym in Baltimore, on charges of alleged ‘assault with deadly weapon’. On December 29, law enforcement authorities in Baltimore arrested him. The action followed charges issued against Ford in the state of Nevada.

Back in 1988, Calvin Ford was found guilty of ‘racketeering and conspiracy’. As a result, he served a prison sentence that lasted ten years. Reportedly, he utilized the time to pick up the nuances of boxing. Once out, he decided to use the sport to change his life for good. But more significantly, he made it the medium through which others, especially children growing up in rough neighborhoods, could transform their lives.

Do you think Frank Martin has a chance against ‘Tank’? Or will he go down, like many before him, once the latter’s onslaught begins?