March 11, 2024, Keith Sullivan, a New York City-based lawyer, has officially signed amateur boxing sensation Nisa Rodriguez to an exclusive managerial contract.
The 33-year-old Rodriguez, a New York City police officer and former NYC teacher, boasts an impressive record with three National Golden Gloves Championship titles. Additionally, she holds eight New York Daily News Golden Gloves, six Metro Championships, and has secured gold medals twice in both the Empire State and Caribbean and Central Americano competitions.
Rodriguez is set to make her professional debut this Friday night (March 15) at the Madison Square Garden Theater, competing on a 360 Promotions card in a four-round bout against Jozette Cotton (0-3-1), an undefeated contender in three bare-knuckle fights.
Explaining her decision to turn professional, Rodriguez stated, “I decided to go professional now, mainly due to my son who said he would like to see me go for some world titles now that he’s competing himself at the age of 14. I was set on focusing on my career with the police department, but I saw what boxing has done to inspire and teach other women. So, I’m hoping we can encourage more women to learn the sweet science. My pro debut feels like a homecoming. I’ve grown up at the Mecca of Boxing, where I watched my first Daily News Golden Gloves, and the following year won the title there at the age of 17, the youngest in my division. Fast forward seven more Golden Gloves and many other titles, I’m honored to have my debut where it all started."
Rodriguez chose to sign with Keith Sullivan based on their discussions about mutual expectations and Sullivan's track record of helping young amateur talents. Rodriguez emphasized Sullivan's reputation for trustworthiness and felt secure in his guidance for her future professional career.
A NYC police officer for two years, Rodriguez is part of the rapid response unit, specializing in crimes involving adolescents and providing support to families affected by homicides.
Sullivan, who also manages Brooklyn heavyweight prospect Pryce Taylor (3-0, 2 KOs) and co-manages WBA No. 13-rated welterweight contender Paddy “The Real Deal” Donovan (13-0, 10 KOs) with former world middleweight champion Andy Lee, expressed his confidence in Rodriguez's character and boxing talent. He commented, “My mother was a teacher, my father was a cop, so putting aside Nisa’s incredible amateur career, I liked how she was living her life. She is a guiding force for kids who need a good role model. For me, it was a no-brainer based on her character. Combine that with her boxing talent, well, let’s just say I am excited for her future.”
