These words from renowned French director and boxing enthusiast Vitali Klitschko perfectly capture the sentiments of Arman Sargsyan, the accomplished former boxer and Armenian boxing coach. For Arman, boxing is not merely a reflection of life, but rather a school of life, a way of life, and, in essence, life itself.
Arman’s journey began with a simple fascination for this exhilarating and courageous sport. As a child, he would watch boxing matches on television with his father, captivated by the strength and skill of the fighters. Deep down, he dreamed of becoming a boxer like them. His dream quickly materialized when, at the age of 6, his mother enrolled him in the prestigious Olympic Children and Youth Sports School for Boxing, named after Vladimir Engibaryan.
During his teenage years, when being strong was considered fashionable, boxing provided Arman with unwavering self-confidence. But for him, boxing was always more than just a hobby. Driven by a clear vision and a relentless determination to achieve his goals, he trained rigorously. His hard work paid off. By the age of 15, Arman became the champion of Yerevan in the 48 kg category. At 18, he secured the silver medal in the 51 kg category at the Armenian championship, and by 21, he emerged as the champion of the Central Federal District of Russia boxing championship in the 60 kg category. Throughout his amateur boxing career, Arman participated in approximately 110 fights, losing only 4. He earned the esteemed title of Master of Sports.
In 2003, at the age of 23, Arman Sargsyan embarked on his professional boxing career, relocating to Moscow to seize new opportunities. This marked a new chapter in his sporting journey, with entirely different challenges and prospects. Shortly after, he made his debut in the professional boxing ring. His experience in amateur boxing propelled him forward, leading him to compete in high-stakes matches. Within a year, as part of the “Preparation of World Champions in Russia” program, Arman secured a victory against the Belarusian champion. In 2006, he proudly claimed two titles: Russian Champion in lightweight boxing and Champion of the CIS and Slavic countries according to the WBC (World Boxing Council CIS and Slovac Boxing Bureau). The following year, he earned the title of Asian Champion according to the WBC (World Boxing Council Asian Boxing Council). In 2008, he achieved his greatest milestone by winning the World Champion title in lightweight boxing, as recognized by the WBL, with a stunning knockout victory over Mexican boxer Leo Martinez in the seventh round. Notably, this triumph took place in his inaugural professional boxing match in the United States. Throughout his professional career, Arman competed in 14 matches, winning all 14, with 8 victories by knockout.
Following his retirement from professional boxing, Arman Sargsyan transitioned into coaching. In 2017, he established a boxing school where he trains children and adults, preparing them for competitive matches. Over 200 individuals from diverse countries have become students of this esteemed former champion. From 2015 to 2018, Arman also served as a first-category sports judge. In 2019, he relocated to the United States, where he now coaches Russian professional boxer Petros Ananyan in the super lightweight weight category.
Recognizing that boxing is not solely a sport but also an invaluable self-defense system that every teenager should possess, as well as an excellent means of maintaining physical fitness, Arman volunteers his time to train children at an elementary school in Burbank, California. Despite dedicating most of his life to being a champion boxer and now a coach, Arman still prioritizes his family, takes leisurely walks with his dog, and indulges in his hobby of Nordic walking during his free time. Arman Sargsyan serves as a shining example of how a childhood passion for boxing can evolve into a lifelong pursuit.
Arman firmly believes that boxing is not merely a sport but a microcosm of life itself. It teaches invaluable life lessons such as discipline, perseverance, and resilience. Inside the boxing ring, one must navigate challenges, strategize, and adapt to constantly changing circumstances. These skills, honed through the rigorous training and intense competition, seamlessly translate into the challenges and obstacles one faces in everyday life.
Through his coaching endeavors, Arman instills in his students the values he has learned through boxing. He not only imparts technical skills and physical conditioning but also emphasizes the importance of mental strength, self-belief, and determination. Arman’s coaching philosophy is centered around empowering individuals to overcome their limitations, develop unwavering self-confidence, and discover their full potential, both inside and outside the ring.
Arman’s influence extends beyond the confines of his boxing school. His voluntary involvement in training children at an elementary school in Burbank showcases his commitment to making a positive impact on the community. By sharing his knowledge and expertise, he equips young individuals with valuable self-defense skills and promotes physical fitness and well-being.
In reflection, Arman Sargsyan’s journey as a boxer and coach exemplifies the transformative power of passion, dedication, and perseverance. From a young boy mesmerized by boxing matches on TV to a world champion and revered coach, he has experienced the profound impact that boxing can have on one’s life. Through his unwavering commitment to the sport and his desire to inspire others, Arman continues to shape the lives of aspiring boxers and instill in them the belief that boxing is not just a sport but a path to personal growth, resilience, and success.
Arman’s story serves as an inspiration to individuals of all ages, encouraging them to pursue their passions relentlessly, embrace the challenges that come their way, and find their own metaphorical boxing ring in which to thrive. As Arman Sargsyan continues to make a lasting impact on the world of boxing and beyond, his legacy as a true champion—both inside and outside the ring—will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
