Boxing Heavyweight Jared Anderson Talks His OVO x Everlast Fight Gear, Fashion in Boxing and More
With football and fashion continuing to occupy the same spaces, it seems other parts of the sporting world are beginning to take notice. This past weekend, undefeated heavyweight boxer Jared "Big Baby" Anderson took to the ring wearing unique fight gear designed by Drake's OVO label and Everlast.
The black and gold kit featured a matching satin robe and shorts, each decorated with golden tassels, crystal embroideries, and the famed OVO owl logo graphic. On the waistband of the shorts, Jared's "Big Baby" moniker can be seen in gold lettering also, contrasting the sleek black base hue. On the feet, the pugilist wore a pair of custom Everlast PIVT Low Tops, complete with cross and owl signatures alongside a pair of crisp white OVO socks.
Prior to his third-round corner stoppage win over George Arias, we briefly caught up with Jared Anderson to ask him a few questions regarding fashion's new involvement within boxing and making statements in and out of the ring.
"So, over the years, we've gradually seen the lines between football and fashion blur to a degree where teams and players are now producing clothing and footwear lines with some of the biggest labels around. Do you think there is more room for crossovers between the fashion world and boxing within the sport?"
"Yeah definitely. There’s a lot of potential for fashion in boxing, especially with the walk to the ring. My whole mindset is to make a statement each and every time I step out of the dressing room. So, I would like to see more crossover, because a lot of us boxers, we like to look good and put on a show for the fans. You really need the right style to be able to do that."
"Everlast x OVO have joined forces to produce your ring walk gear, fight shorts and gloves for your upcoming bout this Saturday. How important is it for you to make a statement both with your performance and your attire?"
"It’s everything. Just to come out in an outfit that the fans can be excited about. I want people to be talking about me on fight night and after. You know, to kinda go viral with a knockout and a fight kit that makes a big splash. Looking good also just motivates me to put on a great performance, and with Everlast and OVO, I get to bring both sides of my personality together."
"Last July, we saw lightweight boxer Ryan Garcia take to the ring in a custom-made Dior fight kit. Are you personally expecting to see more fashion sponsors get involved with the sport after you make your walk on Saturday?"
"Yeah, I’m sure we’ll do more. This is just the beginning for Jared Big Baby Anderson. So as we climb up that ladder of competition we want to up our outfits as well."
"Do you think boxing purists would be against the idea of bringing fashion into the sport?"
"Maybe some of the old-school boxing heads yeah. But it’s a new generation out there that’s looking forward to seeing more fashion in the sport. And that’s how the sport can grow, more eyes on the ring."
"Finally, I see you're a fan of luxury brands such as Gucci, judging by your Instagram, at least. What's your favourite brand in general, and which brands do you think are overrated?"
"I can't really say who's overrated, that's not for me to decide. I just know what I like, and it's brands that are just real. Authentic. So I mean, Everlast and OVO obviously haha, but there are a ton of brands I consider worthwhile."
Check out Jared's Instagram here to keep up with all the latest from this up and coming prospect!
