Saundre Simmons On Upcoming Fight
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Undefeated boxer Saundre “Dash” Simmons attended Harbour Nights on Wednesday, engaging with fans and showing support for the community, as he builds towards his professional bout against Jamaican Ian Darby.
Simmons touched down from the United States this week before his second fight on home soil at the Victualling Yard in Dockyard tomorrow [June 28].
Although he was born in Lancaster, Massachusetts, Simmons was raised in Somerset by his Bermudian parents before moving to Asheville, North Carolina, with his mother at age 12.
He said he has embraced the opportunity to reconnect with his Bermudian roots during his recent visits to the island.
“It’s been a busy week – I’ve been active in the community,” Simmons [7-0] told Bernews.
“I’ve been to Harbour Nights and been on a couple of radio stations.
“It’s kept my mind off the weight cutting. I’ve had a very warm welcome – a lot of people know my family and have been sharing stories with me.”
The 28-year-old made a dominant Bermuda debut in February, stopping American Patrick Pierre in the first round at The Shed in Dockyard.
He said he is focused on soaking up the hometown atmosphere once again as he steps into a six-round light-heavyweight showdown with Darby.
“I want to enjoy the experience,” Simmons said. “It’s been a long camp, and a tough weight cut.
“The nerves are still there, but I’m looking forward to it whether it goes one round or six.”
Darby [6-2], defeated compatriot Mason Brown in Kingston via technical knockout in his previous outing in December 2023.
“We have a game plan for him,” Simmons added. “He’s a veteran and has been in with some top-ranked guys.”
Before turning pro, Simmons built an impressive amateur résumé, finishing as runner-up at both the USA National Boxing Championships in Louisiana and the prestigious Golden Gloves of America tournament in Oklahoma in 2021.
