Danny Davis, who has been Bernard Hopkins’ strength & conditioning coach for eight years, has been added in that capacity to Mike Jones’ team as Jones, the undefeated welterweight contender from Philadelphia, prepares for his rematch vs. Jesus Soto-Karass on Feb. 19 at Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. “I push and challenge Mike and bring out the best in him,” said Davis, who credits Hopkins, trainers Freddie Roach and John David Jackson and fitness nutritional specialist Mackie Shilstone as major influences. “Mike’s a hard worker who wants to go to the highest level and never complains about what he’s asked to do. That’s what makes a champion.
“He looks a lot stronger and his conditioning is right there. People will see a difference in Mike in this fight,” added Davis, who has worked with pro football and basketball players and is based at Joe Hand’s Boxing Gym in Philadelphia. “I hope I’m the missing piece to the puzzle. It’s a pleasure to be working with him. I’m blessed each and every day.”
Jones: “Danny has pushed me and has squeezed out of me every ounce of sweat I own in the drills he has put me through. Look at the shape Bernard (Hopkins) was in for his last fight. Staying in shape is a lifestyle that I also believe in, doing the right things in and out of the ring. Look at how long Bernard’s stayed on top. That’s where I want to be.”
“Danny has some great ideas on strength and conditioning that he brings to the team from his experience with B-Hop,” said trainer Vaughn Jackson, who brought Davis aboard three weeks after Jones’ first fight with Soto-Karass last Nov. 13. “Danny brings what he’s done with Bernard to our workouts. He’s put Mike through some strenuous sessions. He also gives me great feedback from Mike’s sparring sessions. He will be my other set of eyes in the corner for the fight with Soto-Karass.”
