Jay Dehmalo, hailing from Avon Lake, Ohio, is a multifaceted individual with a rich tapestry of experiences. Renowned for his distinguished military service and remarkable boxing career, Jay’s journey embodies resilience, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

During his tenure with the United States Army, Jay served with distinction at Camp Casey in Korea, just 13 miles from the Demilitarized Zone. His unwavering dedication and adaptability were highlighted during critical moments, such as the aftermath of the assassination of South Korean President Park Chung Hee, where he played a pivotal role in crowd control.

In the realm of boxing, Jay carved out an impressive record of five wins and three losses between 1985 and 1986, boxing under the names Jay D’mallo and Jay Dimalo. His contributions extended beyond the ring, as he served as a sparring partner to heavyweight champions Trevor Berbick and Bonecrusher Smith, enriching their careers with his expertise and dedication.

Moreover, Jay’s commitment to justice and community service is evident through his involvement in the conviction and deportation of John Demanyuk, known as “Ivan the Terrible,” and his regular contributions to charitable causes like St. Jude’s. With an enduring legacy marked by resilience, integrity, and a passion for making a difference, Jay Dehmalo continues to inspire and uplift those around him.

 Let’s start with the beginning of your journey. What initially drew you to the sport of boxing, and how did you get started?

It’s my pleasure. Well, boxing has always been a part of my family’s life. My father was a boxer, and I grew up watching him train and compete. I was drawn to the intensity and discipline of the sport from a young age. I started training seriously when I was around 10 years old, and from there, it became a passion that I pursued relentlessly.

 Can you share with us some of the challenges you faced early in your career, and how you overcame them?

Absolutely. Like any sport, boxing comes with its share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles for me was balancing training with school and other responsibilities. It required a lot of discipline and time management. Additionally, there were times when I faced setbacks and defeats in the ring. However, I always tried to view these as learning opportunities rather than failures. I would analyze my performances, identify areas for improvement, and come back stronger in the next fight.

What would you say has been the most memorable moment of your boxing career so far?

That’s a tough question, as there have been so many memorable moments throughout my career. However, if I had to pick one, it would probably be the opportunity to train with Mohammad Ali, the Champ was a whole different experience. When I stepped into that ring as the legend’s sparring partner, my sole focus was to make myself better and push myself to my limits. It was a surreal experience to be in the presence of such a legend and to compete alongside him. It’s a moment I’ll never forget.

As you reflect on your journey, how do you believe boxing has shaped you as a person, both inside and outside the ring?

Boxing has had a profound impact on my life in more ways than I can count. Inside the ring, it’s taught me the importance of discipline, focus, and perseverance. It’s a sport that demands your all, both physically and mentally. Outside the ring, those same qualities have translated into other areas of my life. I’ve learned the value of hard work, dedication, and never giving up on your goals, no matter how challenging they may seem.

Your influence extends beyond your achievements as a boxer. Can you tell us about your role as a coach and mentor in the sport?

Coaching and mentoring have been incredibly rewarding experiences for me. I believe in giving back to the sport that has given me so much. As a coach, I strive to pass on the knowledge and wisdom I’ve gained throughout my career to the next generation of fighters. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see them grow and succeed, both inside and outside the ring.

In addition to coaching, you’ve also made significant contributions as a security expert. How did your background in boxing prepare you for this role?

Boxing and security may seem like unrelated fields, but they actually have a lot in common. Both require quick thinking, adaptability, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. My experience in the ring taught me how to assess situations quickly and make split-second decisions, skills that are invaluable. Additionally, my background in the armed services provided me with a solid foundation in leadership and teamwork, which are essential in any security role.

Your career has seen you excel in various roles, including Chief Security for Carnival Cruise Lines from 1990 to 1992. Can you share some insights into your responsibilities during that time?

Certainly. My role as Chief Security for Carnival Cruise Lines in San Juan, Puerto Rico, was primarily focused on ensuring the safety and security of all passengers aboard the cruise ships. This involved overseeing security protocols, conducting regular patrols, and coordinating with the ship’s crew to address any potential security concerns.

You had the honor of escorting and ensuring the safety of Kathy Lee Gifford during her voyages with Carnival Cruise Lines. Can you tell us about that experience and how it exemplifies your dedication to ensuring a safe environment for all travelers?

It was indeed an honor to escort Kathy Lee Gifford during her voyages. As a public figure, her safety was paramount, and it was my responsibility to ensure that she felt secure throughout her time onboard. This experience highlighted the importance of attention to detail and proactive security measures in providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all travelers.

How did your experience in this role contribute to your overall approach to security and leadership?

Serving as Chief Security for Carnival Cruise Lines was a challenging yet rewarding experience that taught me the importance of adaptability and effective leadership in ensuring the safety of others. It reinforced the significance of thorough planning, clear communication, and proactive measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the well-being of passengers and crew alike.

Your career trajectory showcases not only your proficiency in boxing but also your commitment to safeguarding others and contributing positively to the communities you serve. How do you balance these diverse roles, and what drives you to excel in each of them?

Balancing these diverse roles requires a combination of dedication, time management, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact. Whether it’s in the ring, ensuring the safety of cruise-goers, or giving back to the community, my overarching motivation is to contribute in meaningful ways and leave a lasting, positive legacy wherever I go.

Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for the future, both in boxing and beyond?

My goals remain the same as they’ve always been – to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in boxing and to make a positive impact on the lives of others. I want to continue coaching and mentoring, helping to nurture the next generation of champions. Additionally, I’m always looking for new ways to contribute to the sport and to use my skills and expertise to benefit others.

Throughout your career, you’ve undoubtedly faced moments of doubt and adversity. How do you maintain your mental toughness and resilience during challenging times?

Mental toughness is just as important as physical prowess in boxing. During challenging times, I rely on my training and experience to stay focused and determined. I remind myself of all the hard work I’ve put in and the goals I’m striving to achieve. I also have a strong support system of friends, family, and mentors who help keep me grounded and motivated.

As you reflect on your three decades in the boxing world, what legacy do you hope to leave behind, both in the sport and in your broader contributions to society?

Ultimately, I hope to be remembered as someone who made a positive impact on the sport of boxing and on the lives of those around me. I want to inspire others to pursue their passions with dedication and perseverance, and to use their skills and talents to make a difference in the world. Whether it’s through coaching, mentoring, or my services in the army, I hope to leave behind a legacy of service, integrity, and excellence.

Thank you, Jay, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. Your commitment to excellence and dedication to safeguarding others are truly admirable.