ORLANDO, Fla. — The sunshine state has produced some great boxers, like Roy Jones Jr., Antonio Tarver and Keith Thurman. 

And now, Darrius “The Hawk” Jackson is hoping to add his name to that list. 

What You Need To Know

  • Orlando boxer Darrius "The Hawk" Jackson is undefeated since turning turning pro in 2021

  • Jackson, who has been training at his father's gym since he was 5 years old, says he hopes to one day fight at the Kia Center

  • He hopes to someday become a world championship 

Since going pro in 2021, Jackson is undefeated at 8-0 with five knockouts. 

While the 20-year-old is gifted, his skill comes from natural ability and his work ethic. 

“This is my life,” said Jackson. “From six in the morning when it opens up until six at night. So, that’s all day.”

It helps when your dad owns the gym. Robert Rene opened Rene’s Dynamic Sports Center almost 30 years ago. 

Since he was 5-years-old, Jackson has been working and perfecting his craft.

“I want to become world champion, I want to be the greatest,” he said. “I'm not just in it to win the belts, I want to be the greatest.”

Boxing has already taken Jackson around the world. 

But, the three-time international champion wants to bring his hometown Orlando to the national stage, where he hopes to one day fight at the Kia Center. 

“I want to take it further. I want to take it as far as I can,” Jackson said. “I know I got everybody on my back and I’m carrying the whole family. I’m ready.”