As the show on which he made his name prepares for a comeback to the small screen on EPIX, the season one ‘Contender’ finalist informed WBN he’d have some interest in speaking to Mark Burnett about a role on the forthcoming revamp.
‘The Contender’ series’ of the past had coaches and mentors who help out the contestants and Manfredo would have no hesitation accepting a spot should a call come from Burnett to be involved.
“I would absolutely love to do something with the show. Just being one of the first Contenders, and making it all the way to the finals, It would be great to be part of someone else accomplishing their goals,” Manfredo exclusively told World Boxing News.
“I’m not around the sport anymore as I’m too busy working and being a help to my wife with our family, but I could find the time to help out in some capacity.”
On being out of the sport since 2013 barring an eight-rounder one-off in 2016, Mandfredo says he doesn’t miss the professional slog after suffering several frustrations during his career.
“I’ve officially retired for good, especially after the Biosse fight as I was sick of dealing with the Bull****,” he explained. “I wasn’t even supposed to fight Biosse, who by the way, was a friend and sparring partner of mine for years. I did it for my daughter, so I dealt with the Bull**** one last time.
BUSY
“I’m not around it now and I don’t even know what’s going on, and even who’s Champ anymore. I’m way too busy with family life, running around with the kids’ activities – which of them has dance – who has basketball and things like that, I don’t get much time.
“I really don’t even really follow it much, but I know GGG is the Champ at 160 and Danny Jacobs – who’s a killer himself, is right up there with him. Also Demetrius Andrade is flying the flag for Rhode Island too!”
Burnett released details of the new ‘Contender’ in January and is expected to make further announcements in the coming weeks.
Phil Jay is Editor of World Boxing News. Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay
