Jay Dehmalo, who also boxed under the names Jay D’mallo and Jay Dimalo, has dedicated over three decades of his life to training and coaching boxers, leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Currently based at Title Boxing in Westlake, Ohio, Jay works alongside notable figures like Wilkins Santiago. Jay’s boxing journey began with Jake Luce from Erie, Pennsylvania, who managed him and suggested the name changes to enhance his ring presence. He fought out of Johnny Tocco’s gym in Las Vegas during the 1980s, where he followed in the footsteps of legendary coach Johnny Tocco, who trained former heavyweight champion Sonny Liston, forever connected to the historic bout against Cassius Clay, who later became known as Muhammad Ali.

Dehmalo’s experience extended beyond the ring, as he served as a sparring partner to heavyweight champions Trevor Berbick and Bonecrusher Smith, enhancing their skills and contributing to their successful careers. In addition to his contributions to the boxing community, Jay played a significant role as a case officer in a high-profile legal matter, involving the conviction and deportation of John Demanyuk, also known as “Ivan the Terrible,” a convicted Holocaust criminal.

Jay’s commitment to charitable causes is evident through his monthly donations to St. Jude’s in Cleveland, Ohio. He is also a proud member of organizations like EX-Boxers.com, the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 2260 in Westlake, Ohio, and TWS, showcasing his dedication to various communities. With a professional boxing record of five wins and three losses between 1985 and 1986, Jay Dehmalo’s impressive legacy in the boxing world, military service as a U.S. Army veteran, and involvement in the international boxing hall of fame invite in Canastota, New York in 2022 highlight his multifaceted contributions and unwavering commitment to the sport and his community.

Embrace the Name – It’s Your Identity in the Ring.

I began my boxing journey under the watchful eye of Jake Luce from Erie, Pennsylvania. He saw the potential in me and suggested a couple of name changes to enhance my ring presence. Jay D’mallo, Jay Dimalo – these names weren’t just monikers; they became part of my identity. So, coaches, don’t underestimate the power of a name. It’s not just what you shout during a fight; it’s what echoes in the history books. Your name in the ring is the anthem of your legacy, resonating long after the final bell. Remember, it’s a symbol of your grit, determination, and the countless hours of hard work you’ve poured into the sport. The right name can inspire not only you but also those who look up to you, creating a lasting impact on the rich tapestry of boxing history.

Learn from the Legends – Johnny Tocco’s Legacy Lives On. During the 1980s, I trained out of Johnny Tocco’s gym in Las Vegas – a place with a legacy that stretches back to the great Johnny Tocco himself, the man who molded Sonny Liston. Learn from the legends. Absorb their wisdom. Just as I did with Tocco, the lessons I gathered from that gym are etched into my coaching style. It’s not just about the punches; it’s about the stories that come with them. Within those hallowed walls, where the echoes of champions still resonate, absorb the narratives of triumph and defeat—the heart of boxing’s legacy.

Be a Sparring Partner, Be a Mentor – Enhancing Champions. My journey extended beyond the ring when I served as a sparring partner to heavyweight champions Trevor Berbick and Bonecrusher Smith. Being a coach means more than just shouting instructions from the corner. It’s about stepping into the ring, feeling the punches, and understanding the rhythm of a true champion. So, don’t shy away from being a sparring partner – it’s a lesson in itself. Embrace the bruises and sweat, for in those moments, you forge a connection that transcends mere coaching—it’s a shared journey of grit and triumph.

Diversify Your Skills – Beyond the Ring, Beyond Boxing. In addition to my time in the ring, I played a significant role as a case officer in a high-profile legal matter involving the conviction and deportation of John Demanyuk, also known as “Ivan the Terrible.” Boxing is a discipline that demands not just physical strength but mental fortitude. So, coaches, diversify your skills. Be more than just a voice in the gym – be a mentor, a guide, and a source of strength. Understand that the lessons you teach extend beyond the squared circle, impacting lives far beyond the reach of boxing gloves.

Give Back – The Heart of a Champion Extends to the Community. My commitment to charitable causes is evident through my monthly donations to St. Jude’s in Cleveland, Ohio. As coaches, we’re not just shaping fighters; we’re shaping individuals who contribute to society. Give back to your community, be a part of something bigger than yourself. It’s the heart of a champion that extends beyond the ring. Your impact goes beyond the gym, resonating in the lives of those touched by your generosity and compassion.

Join Forces – Strength in Community. I’m a proud member of organizations like EX-Boxers.com, the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) Lodge 2260 in Westlake, Ohio, and TWS. Strength lies in community. Join forces with like-minded individuals who share your passion for the sport and its impact on communities. Together, we amplify our voices, bolstering the spirit of unity and shared purpose that defines true strength within our collective.

Legacy is More than Stats – It’s a Tapestry of Contributions. With a professional boxing record of five wins and three losses between 1985 and 1986, I’ve learned that legacy is more than just numbers in a record book. It’s a tapestry woven with contributions to the sport, military service as a U.S. Army veteran, and involvement in the international boxing hall of fame. Coaches, understand that your legacy is the impact you make, both in and out of the ring. It’s the lives you touch, the lessons you impart, and the indelible mark you leave on the hearts of those you guide.

So, there you have it, aspiring coaches – a glimpse into the lessons and experiences that have shaped my journey in the world of boxing. It’s not just about the punches; it’s about the stories, the people, and the communities we touch. Keep fighting the good fight, and may your coaching legacy be as legendary as the battles fought in the ring.