Saundre Simmons On ‘Homecoming’ Victory
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Boxer Saundre “Dash” Simmons has described his first fight in Bermuda as a “true homecoming” and hopes to return to the island for another bout this year.
He extended his flawless professional record to 6-0 after stopping American opponent Patrick Pierre just 2min 52sec into their light heavyweight contest at The Shed in Dockyard last weekend.
Although born in Lancaster, Massachusetts, Simmons was raised in Somerset by his Bermudian parents before moving to Asheville, North Carolina, with his mother at the age of 12.
“The crowd’s energy was off the wall,” Simmons told Bernews. “It was the loudest I’ve experienced as a fighter.
“Boxing in Bermuda for the first time was sentimental, and I tried to stay in the moment and enjoy it as much as possible.
“I felt so welcome; it was a true homecoming.”
The 27-year-old made his entrance draped in the Bermudian flag and proudly sporting the national football team’s jersey – a moment that held deep personal significance.
However, he admits there were some lingering “misconceptions” about his background leading up to the fight.
“People thought I was just an American, but it all adds to my story, and I had to explain to a few people that I’m from here,” he said.
“I had some guys welcome me to the island, and I was like, ‘Hey, I from up west – I’m from Somerset’.
“They tried to welcome me to their hood, and I had to remind them that they were in my hood!
“I mentioned a few names, and they soon realised that I grew up in Somerset.”
Reflecting on his eye-catching display, Simmons, who has won all his contests by technical knockout, said: “I had a few struggles leading up to the fight – my health, the weight and travel. I played my poker face and made it to the fight.
“I was happy with how the fight went. I got him out of there like I knew I would.”
Simmons is already eyeing his next fight and hopes to step back into the ring in Bermuda soon.
“I’ve talked to my manager and coach individually, but we haven’t all sat down yet,” the North Carolina-based fighter added.
“We’re looking at dates in early April. We’ll be talking to the promoter from Bermuda – there’s a lot on the table.
“I’d like to be 10-0 by the end of the year.”
