Lodaer Img

TRT - Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Paterson, NJ

Let's Talk!

Request a Consultation TRT-phone-number866-793-9933
HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY for Men testrosterone
What is Testosterone?

What is Testosterone?

Testosterone is a crucial hormone for men and plays an important role throughout the male lifespan. Most of a male's testosterone is produced through the testicles. Also called the male sex hormone, testosterone starts playing its part during puberty.

When a male goes through puberty, testosterone helps males develop:

  • Facial Hair
  • Body Hair
  • Deeper Voice
  • Muscle Strength
  • Increased Libido
  • Muscle Density

As boys turn to men and men grow older, testosterone levels deplete naturally. Sometimes, events like injuries and chronic health conditions like diabetes can lower testosterone levels. Unfortunately, when a man loses too much T, it results in hypogonadism. When this happens, the testosterone must be replaced, or the male will suffer from symptoms like muscle loss, low libido, and even depression.

How does TRT work men

How Does TRT Work?

TRT is exactly what it sounds like: a treatment option for men that replaces testosterone so that your body regulates hormones properly and restores balance to your life. Also called androgen replacement therapy, TRT alleviates the symptoms that men experience with low T.

Originally lab-synthesized in 1935, testosterone has grown in popularity since it was produced. Today, TRT and other testosterone treatments are among the most popular prescriptions in the U.S.

Without getting too deep into the science, TRT works by giving your body the essential testosterone it needs to function correctly. As the primary androgen for both males and females, testosterone impacts many of the body's natural processes – especially those needed for overall health. For example, men with low T are more prone to serious problems like cardiovascular disease and even type-2 diabetes.

When your body quits making enough testosterone, it causes your health to suffer until a solution is presented. That's where TRT and anti-aging medicine for men can help. TRT helps balance your hormones and replenish your depleted testosterone. With time, your body will begin to heal, and many symptoms like low libido and irritability begin to diminish.

What Causes Low T

What Causes Low T?

For men, aging is the biggest contributor to lower testosterone levels, though there are other causes like obesity, drug abuse, testicular injuries, and certain prescribed medications. Sometimes, long-term health conditions like AIDS, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney disease can lower testosterone levels.

When a man's testosterone levels drop significantly, it alters his body's ratio of estrogen and testosterone. Lower testosterone levels cause more abdominal fat, which in turn results in increased aromatase, which converts even more testosterone into estrogen.

If you're concerned that you might have low T, you're not alone. Millions of men in the U.S. feel the same way. The best way to find out if your testosterone is low is to get your levels tested.

For sustainable testosterone replacement therapy benefits, you must consult with hormone doctors and experts like those you can find at Global Life Rejuvenation. That way, you can find the root cause of your hormone problems, and our team can craft a personalized HRT plan tailored to your needs.

Lowered Libido

Low Sex Drive

One of the most common reasons that men choose TRT is because they have lost that "spark" with their partner. It's not easy for a man to hear that they're not performing like they used to. Intimacy is a powerful part of any relationship. When a once-healthy sex life dwindles, it can cause serious relationship issues.

The good news is that low libido doesn't have to be a permanent problem. TRT and anti-aging medicines help revert hormone levels back into their normal range. When this happens, many men have a more enjoyable life full of intimacy and sex drive.

Inability to Achieve and Maintain Erections

Inability to Achieve and Maintain an Erection

Weak erections – it's an uncomfortable subject for many men in the U.S. to talk about. It's even worse to experience first-hand. You're in the midst of an intimate moment, and you can't do your part. Despite being perfectly normal, many men put blame and shame upon themselves when they can't achieve an erection. And while the inability to perform sexually can be caused by poor diet, obesity, and chronic health conditions, low testosterone is often a contributing factor.

Fortunately, weak erections are a treatable condition. The best way to regain your confidence and ability in bed is to speak with your doctor. Once any underlying conditions are discovered, options like TRT may be the best course of treatment.

Hair Loss

Loss of Strength and Muscle Mass

Loss of Strength and Muscle Mass

Do you find it harder and harder to work out and lift weights in the gym? Are you having problems lifting heavy items that you once had no problem lifting?

Recent studies show that when men are inactive, they lose .5% of muscle strength every year, from ages 25 to 60. After 60, muscle loss doubles every decade. While some muscle loss is common as men age, a significant portion can be tied to low testosterone levels. When a man's T levels drop, so does his muscle mass.

Testosterone is a much-needed component used in gaining and retaining muscle mass. That's why many doctors prescribe TRT Paterson, NJ, for men having problems with strength. One recent study found that men who increased their testosterone levels using TRT gained as much as 2.5 pounds of muscle mass.

Whether your gym performance is lacking, or you can't lift heavy items like you used to, don't blame it all on age. You could be suffering from hypogonadism.

Hair Loss

Hair Loss

If you're like millions of other men in their late 20s and 30s, dealing with hair loss is a reality you don't want to face. Closely related to testosterone decline and hormone imbalances, hair loss is distressing for many men. This common symptom is often related to a derivative of testosterone called DHT. Excess amounts of DHT cause hair follicles to halt their production, causing follicles to die.

Because hair located at the front and crown is more sensitive to DHT, it grows slower than other follicles and eventually stops growing permanently. Thankfully, TRT and anti-aging treatments for men in Paterson, NJ, is now available to address hair loss for good.

While it's true that you can't change your genes, you can change the effects of low testosterone on your body. Whether you're suffering from thinning hair or hair loss across your entire head, TRT and other hormone therapies can stop hair loss and even reverse the process.

Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia

Also called "man boobs," gynecomastia is essentially the enlargement of male breast tissue. This increase in fatty tissue is often caused by hormonal imbalances and an increase in estrogen. For men, estrogen levels are elevated during andropause. Also called male menopause, andropause usually happens because of a lack of testosterone.

If you're a man between the ages of 40 and 55, and you're embarrassed by having large breasts, don't lose hope. TRT is a safe, effective way to eliminate the underlying cause of gynecomastia without invasive surgery. With a custom HRT and fitness program, you can bring your testosterone and estrogen levels back to normal before you know it.

Decreased Energy

Decreased Energy

Decreased energy was once considered a normal part of aging. Today, many doctors know better. Advances in technology and our understanding of testosterone show that low T and lack of energy often go hand-in-hand.

If you're struggling to enjoy activities like playing with your kids or hiking in a park due to lack of energy, it could be a sign of low T. Of course, getting tired is perfectly normal for any man. But if you're suffering from continual fatigue, a lack of enjoyment, or a decrease in energy, it might be time to speak with a doctor.

Whether you're having a tough time getting through your day or can't finish activities you used to love, TRT could help.

Lack of Sleep

Lack of Sleep

A study from 2011 showed that men who lose a week's worth of sleep can experience lowered testosterone levels – as much as 15%, according to experts. Additional research into the topic found almost 15% of workers only get five hours of sleep (or less) per night. These findings suggest that sleep loss negatively impacts T levels and wellbeing.

The bottom line is that men who have trouble sleeping often suffer from lower testosterone levels as a result. If you find yourself exhausted at the end of the day but toss and turn all night long, you might have low T.

TRT and anti-aging medicines can restore your T levels back to normal, which can help you sleep better with proper diet and exercise.

Depression

Depression

You're feeling down about everything, and there's no solid explanation for why you're in such a crummy mood. Your daily life is great and full of success, but you can't help but feel unexcited and unmotivated. If you're experiencing symptoms like these, you may be depressed – and it may stem from low testosterone.

A research study from Munich found that men with depression also commonly had low testosterone levels. This same study also found that depressed men had cortisol levels that were 67% higher than other men. Because higher cortisol levels lead to lower levels of testosterone, the chances of severe depression increase.

Depression is a very real disorder and should always be diagnosed and treated by your doctor. One treatment option gaining in popularity is TRT for depression. Studies show that when TRT is used to restore hormone levels, men enjoy a lighter, more improved mood. That's great news for men who are depressed and have not had success with other treatments like anti-depression medicines, which alter the brain's chemistry.

Inability to Concentrate

Inability to Concentrate

Ask anyone over the age of 50 how their memory is, and they'll tell you it wasn't what it used to be. Memory loss and lack of concentration occur naturally as we age – these aren't always signs of dementia or Alzheimer's.

However, what many men consider a symptom of age may be caused by low testosterone. A 2006 study found that males with low T levels performed poorly on cognitive skill tests. These results suggest that low testosterone may play a part in reducing cognitive ability. If you're having trouble staying on task or remembering what your schedule is for the day, it might not be due to your age. It might be because your testosterone levels are too low. If you're having trouble concentrating or remembering daily tasks, it could be time to talk to your doctor.

Why? The aforementioned study found that participating men experienced improved cognitive skills when using TRT.

Weight Gain

Weight Gain

Even though today's society is more inclusive of large people, few adults enjoy gaining weight as they age. Despite their best efforts, many men just can't shed the extra pounds around their midsections, increasing their risk of heart disease and cancer.

Often, male weight gain is caused by hormone imbalances that slow the metabolism and cause weight to pile on. This phase of life is called andropause and happens when there is a lack of testosterone in the body. Couple that with high cortisol levels, and you've got a recipe for flabby guts and double chins.

Fortunately, TRT treatments and physician-led weight loss programs can correct hormone imbalances and lead to healthy weight loss for men.

What is Sermorelin

What is Sermorelin?

Sermorelin is a synthetic hormone peptide, like GHRH, which triggers the release of growth hormones. When used under the care of a qualified physician, Sermorelin can help you lose weight, increase your energy levels, and help you feel much younger.

Benefits of Sermorelin

Benefits of Sermorelin

Human growth hormone (HGH) therapy has been used for years to treat hormone deficiencies. Unlike HGH, which directly replaces declining human growth hormone levels, Sermorelin addresses the underlying cause of decreased HGH, stimulating the pituitary gland naturally. This approach keeps the mechanisms of growth hormone production active.

Benefits of Sermorelin include:

  • Better Immune Function
  • Improved Physical Performance
  • More Growth Hormone Production
  • Less Body Fat
  • Build More Lean Muscle
  • Better Sleep
What is Ipamorelin

What is Ipamorelin?

Ipamorelin helps to release growth hormones in a person's body by mimicking a peptide called ghrelin. Ghrelin is one of three hormones which work together to regulate the growth hormone levels released by the pituitary gland. Because Ipamorelin stimulates the body to produce growth hormone, your body won't stop its natural growth hormone production, which occurs with synthetic HGH.

Ipamorelin causes growth hormone secretion that resembles natural release patterns rather than being constantly elevated from HGH. Because ipamorelin stimulates the natural production of growth hormone, our patients can use this treatment long-term with fewer health risks.

Benefits of Ipamorelin

Benefits of Ipamorelin

One of the biggest benefits of Ipamorelin is that it is suitable for both men and women. It provides significant short and long-term benefits in age management therapies, boosting patients' overall health, wellbeing, and outlook on life. When growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland using Ipamorelin, clients report amazing benefits.

Some of those benefits include:

  • Powerful Anti-Aging Properties
  • More Muscle Mass
  • Less Unsightly Body Fat
  • Deep, Restful Sleep
  • Increased Athletic Performance
  • More Energy
  • Less Recovery Time for Training Sessions and Injuries
  • Enhanced Overall Wellness and Health
  • No Significant Increase in Cortisol

Your New, Youthful Lease on Life Starts Here

Whether you are considering our TRT services, HRT for women, or our growth hormone peptide services, we are here to help. The first step to turning back the hand of time starts by contacting Global Life Rejuvenation.

Our friendly, knowledgeable TRT and HRT experts can help answer your questions and walk you through our procedures. From there, we'll figure out which treatments are right for you. Before you know it, you'll be well on your way to looking and feeling better than you have in years!

Homes-for-Sale-phone-number866-793-9933

Request a Consultation

Latest News in Paterson, NJ

Paterson Celebrates Grand Opening of Inclusive Playground at Eastside Park

PreviousNextGetting your Trinity Audio player ready... By Gabriella DragonePublished November 6, 2024 at 3:47 PMPATERSON, NJ - Paterson’s newest inclusive playground officially opened on Wednesday at Eastside Park. This renovation project, valued at over $500,000, brings new, modern equipment and upgraded surfacing to ensure a safe and welcoming space for children of all abilities...

Previous

Next

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Gabriella Dragone

Published November 6, 2024 at 3:47 PM

PATERSON, NJ - Paterson’s newest inclusive playground officially opened on Wednesday at Eastside Park. This renovation project, valued at over $500,000, brings new, modern equipment and upgraded surfacing to ensure a safe and welcoming space for children of all abilities. The playground’s debut is a testament to the city’s commitment to creating accessible recreational spaces for all Paterson residents, particularly for children with special needs, officials said.

“We are committed to ensuring that all Paterson families, especially our children, have the best places to play," Mayor Andre Sayegh said. "Access to quality parks and playgrounds is essential for any community, and we’re doing our part to keep our children active and healthy.”

The celebration highlighted not only the playground but also the city's investment in Eastside Park’s comprehensive improvements, which include resurfaced roads, a pedestrian pathway, and renovated tennis courts. Among the attendees was Assemblyman and Division of Recreation Director, Benjie Wimberly, who noted the park’s long-standing value to Paterson families, sharing memories of his own children’s experiences there.

Sign Up for FREE Paterson Newsletter

Get local news you can trust in your inbox.

Over the past six years, Paterson has expanded its accessibility initiatives, adding six inclusive playgrounds across the city. This progress means that families no longer need to travel outside Paterson for accessible play spaces, as playgrounds within city limits now accommodate children with diverse needs.

Representatives from the Paterson Rotary Club, which originally helped establish the playground two decades ago, were also present to celebrate. Former Rotary President Jamie Dykes spoke on the club’s dedication to Paterson’s youth, reflecting on the vision of a place where children could escape the concrete and asphalt for a safe and vibrant play area.

“Twenty years ago, as president of the Paterson Rotary Club, I was proud to help dedicate this park to Paterson’s children,” Dykes said. "Too many kids only had concrete and asphalt outside their homes, so we wanted to create a space where they could enjoy fresh air and just be kids. With over a million dollars raised, we built this playground to be a safe, welcoming place. I’m grateful to the mayor and council for honoring their commitment to maintain and now update this facility for a new generation of children."

Paterson BOE Candidate: Erica Plaza

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... By Gabriella DragoneOccupation: School AdministratorPersonal background:**_Erica Plaza is a devoted parent, passionate educator, and committed community advocate. With a rich background in education and a deep-rooted commitment to the community, Erica brings a wealth of experience and insight to her campaign and promises to be a trans...

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

By Gabriella Dragone

Occupation: School Administrator

Personal background:

**_Erica Plaza is a devoted parent, passionate educator, and committed community advocate. With a rich background in education and a deep-rooted commitment to the community, Erica brings a wealth of experience and insight to her campaign and promises to be a transformative leader for the Paterson school district._**

Sign Up for FREE Paterson Newsletter

Get local news you can trust in your inbox.

**_As an experienced educator, Erica has spent over a decade in the field, where she has successfully collaborated with fellow educators to enhance the learning environment for students. Her work in schools has always been guided by the belief that every child deserves access to a high-quality education that nurtures their unique talents and abilities. Erica's hands-on experience in and out of the classroom has given her a comprehensive understanding of the challenges teachers face, enabling her to be an effective advocate for educators and students alike._**

Past and Current Involvement in the Paterson Public Schools:

Worked at the following schools:

School 2: 2007 -2009

School 13: 2009 - 2011

School 2: 2012 - 2020

Community Charter School of Paterson: 2020-present

Public service background:

**_Erica has been an active community advocate in Paterson. Through her work at the New Jersey Community Development Corporation (NJCDC) and the Paterson Art Exchange (PAX), Erica has led initiatives to create outlets for expression, creativity, and learning, recognizing that a well-rounded education extends beyond traditional academics. As a dedicated committee member of the Puerto Rican Day Parade, Erica has worked tirelessly to celebrate and uplift Puerto Rican culture and heritage. She has been instrumental in developing events that not only showcase the vibrant traditions and history of Puerto Rico but also provide community members with opportunities to explore their passions, develop new skills, and express themselves creatively. Through her efforts, Erica strives to honor her cultural roots and inspire others to take pride in their heritage._**

Reason for running:

**_As a lifelong resident of Paterson, Erica Plaza is deeply invested in the success and well-being of her community. If elected as Commissioner, Erica is committed to bringing her vision of a vibrant, equitable, and inclusive educational system to life, ensuring that every student in Paterson has the opportunity to thrive._**

**_With Erica Plaza on the Paterson Board of Education, residents can expect a dedicated leader who will tirelessly advocate for the needs of students, families, and educators, working to create a brighter future for the entire community._**

Candidate's biggest issue:

Erica will prioritize several key issues, including addressing educational equity, ensuring that all students have access to quality education, resources, and opportunities, regardless of their background or zip code. Erica will focus on:

1. Equitable Funding: Advocating for fair distribution of resources to underfunded schools.

2. Curriculum Inclusivity: Ensuring the curriculum reflects diverse perspectives and histories.

3. Support for Disadvantaged Students: Implementing programs that support students with disabilities, English language learners, and those facing economic hardships.

4. Mental Health Resources: Prioritizing mental health support and counseling services for students.

5. Community Engagement: Involving parents and community members in decision- making processes to better reflect local needs.

By focusing on these areas, Erica will help create a more inclusive and effective educational environment for all students.

Campaign slogan and meaning:

Every Child Matters

Approach to budget cuts and spending:

Erica anticipates coping with cuts in state aid to the local school district by focusing on several strategic approaches:

1. Budget Prioritization: Assessing and prioritizing essential programs and services to ensure that the most critical needs are met even with reduced funding.

2. Diversifying Funding Sources: Actively seeking alternative funding through grants, partnerships with local businesses, and community fundraising initiatives to supplement state aid.

3. Community Engagement: Involving parents, community members, and local

organizations in discussions about funding challenges and potential solutions to foster collective support.

4. Efficiency Measures: Identifying areas where efficiencies can be gained, such as reducing administrative costs or streamlining operations, to preserve funding for classroom instruction.

5. Advocacy: Engaging in advocacy efforts at the state level to address funding inequities and push for increased support for public education.

6. Transparent Communication: Keeping the community informed about funding challenges and the impact on schools, which can help garner support for budgetary decisions.

Additional information about candidate:

**_Being a single parent of three sons has further fueled Erica's dedication to education. As a mother, she understands the importance of parental involvement in a child's education and is committed to fostering stronger connections between schools and families. Her experience navigating the school system as a parent has equipped her with valuable insights into the needs and concerns of parents and students, making her a strong voice for families in the community._**

The template and supplemental resources for this voter guide were developed in collaboration with the Center for Cooperative Media at Montclair State University.

All candidates were contacted for their responses. The information is presented exactly as the responses were received.

Voter Guide: 2024 Paterson Board of Education

...

You Can Still Register for Fall College Classes at PCCC

You can still attend college this fall at Passaic County Community College (PCCC) and ...

Read More »

Read More PCCC Update

Sponsored By

Understanding the Different Types of Auto Loans Available

Have you dreamed of sliding into the cushioned driver's seat of your first brand-new ...

Read More »

Read More Destination: Financial Freedom

5 Delicious Alternatives to Turkey to Serve on Thanksgiving

This year, why not try something different for your Thanksgiving feast? Whether you're ...

Read More »

You Can Make These Healthy Meals Quickest with Your Air Fryer

Air fryers are small, electric, high-powered convection ovens that have become extremely ...

Read More »

Read More Healthy in Passaic

Felician University to Celebrate the Inauguration of President Mildred A. Mihlon, PhD on Dec. 5

RUTHERFORD, NJ - Felician University will formally inaugurate its new president, Dr.

Read More »

Read More The Felician Way

Passaic Valley Water Commission to Host Virtual Town Hall on November 12

CLIFTON, NJ - The Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) is hosting a virtual town hall ...

Read More »

Read More Passaic Valley Water Commission

Upcoming Events

Fri., November 08, 2024 06:30 PM — 09:30 PM

679 Washington Ave, Belleville

After-School All-Stars - Bowl Like an All-Star

Thu., November 14, 2024 07:00 PM — 09:00 PM

MBA Open House at Berkeley College

View Events Submit an Event

Passaic County News

By GABRIELLA DRAGONE

October 29, 2024

PASSAIC, NJ - Passaic County has announced the upcoming launch of its micro-transit ...

Moody’s puts Paterson finances ‘under review’ over late audit

2-minute read0:001:22PATERSON — Moody’s has placed Paterson’s finances “under review” because of the city’s delinquent 2022 audit, officials said.Paterson was one of 37 local governments around the country that the credit rating group put on review “due to insufficient information” on their finances. Moody’s ratings affect the interest rates that local governments get when they borrow money.“If the information is not received over the next 60 to...

2-minute read

PATERSON — Moody’s has placed Paterson’s finances “under review” because of the city’s delinquent 2022 audit, officials said.

Paterson was one of 37 local governments around the country that the credit rating group put on review “due to insufficient information” on their finances. Moody’s ratings affect the interest rates that local governments get when they borrow money.

“If the information is not received over the next 60 to 90 days, we will take appropriate rating action, which could include the withdrawal of the issuers' ratings,” Moody’s said in a press release.

Among the other places under review by Moody’s are Hyde Park, Deerfield, and East Fishkill in New York; Starkville, Mississippi; Manhattan, Kansas; and Paris, Texas. Only one other local government from New Jersey was on Moody’s list: Tabernacle Township in Burlington County.

Members of Paterson Mayor Andre Sayegh’s administration said the move will not affect the city’s day-to-day finances or its ability to borrow money.

“It’s literally just a timing issue,” city Business Administrator Kathleen Long said about the delinquent 2022 audit.

She said the COVID-19 pandemic knocked Paterson off schedule for its 2021 audit and there was a ripple effect that delayed the 2022 financial analysis as well.

Long said city auditors have completed a draft of the 2022 audit and she expected the Sayegh administration would seek City Council approval of the audit soon.

Council members express concern

Some members of the governing body were not happy about Moody’s putting Paterson under review. Councilman Shahin Khalique called it “deeply concerning.”

“It reflects a lack of confidence in our fiscal management and is simply unacceptable for our community,” Khalique said. “We must demand better accountability and transparency to protect Paterson's financial future."

Just five months ago, Moody’s upgraded Paterson’s credit rating to Baa3, which indicates moderate risk. At the time, Sayegh called the upgrade “a pivotal moment for Paterson.” Even after the upgrade, the city’s credit ratings remained so low that municipal officials conducted all borrowing through the Passaic County Improvement Authority to get lower interest rates.

Minutes before the mayor’s State of the City speech on Thursday, Paterson Press asked Sayegh about the Moody’s decision to place the city under review. He referred questions to his staff.

The overdue city audit also prompted the New Jersey Health Department to freeze some Paterson grants, including funding for childhood lead prevention programs. City officials said the freeze was lifted earlier this year.

Paterson's best hope for boxing glory is Erik Mendez, a 19-year-old airport worker

Erik Mendez’s day looks like this.Rise in the middle of the night for his job at the airport where he helps disabled passengers navigate the terminals. In the early afternoon, he heads home and works out on his own before putting in some hours at Ike & Randy’s with the heavy and speed bags, rope skipping, one-on-one with Ossie Duran or another trainer, maybe some rounds of sparring.He heads home, eats, and heads to bed around 8 p.m. before repeating.A recent Instagram post saw him doing dip...

Erik Mendez’s day looks like this.

Rise in the middle of the night for his job at the airport where he helps disabled passengers navigate the terminals. In the early afternoon, he heads home and works out on his own before putting in some hours at Ike & Randy’s with the heavy and speed bags, rope skipping, one-on-one with Ossie Duran or another trainer, maybe some rounds of sparring.

He heads home, eats, and heads to bed around 8 p.m. before repeating.

A recent Instagram post saw him doing dips on two cafeteria chairs at 5 a.m. during a break at work.

“All the coaches help me out,” he explains, and his affinity for the place, the people, and the process is impossible not to hear. “I talk to them. They keep me off the streets. The trainers help me out one way or the other.”

His folks are supportive, he says, as is his girlfriend, Joshlyn, the mother of his daughter, Isabella. His father has been to the gym to check It out.

Ken De Berry, a trainer who also runs the finances for the gym, says Mendez came on strong when he first arrived, winning his first five fights all by knockout. He had trouble getting opponents once word got out.

“Erik has heart. And a great jab,” De Berry said.

“He’s got talent. He listens. He learns and he executes,” gym owner Phil Shevack said. “He learns right away and makes adjustments right away. If he is in with a boxer, he’ll box. If he is in with a puncher, he’ll punch.

“You tell him something once, it’s ingrained,” Shevack said, tapping his temple for emphasis.

With Mendez’s busy schedule siphoning off valuable training time, Shevack recently declared Mendez was not in fighting shape yet. Still, he matched him up with a younger but more experienced fighter from Newark, Ramon Ordonez, who is trained by his ex-boxer father and has about 50 fights under his belt.

Trainer Ron Bacote, aka Rasul, and Duran tag team Mendez’s coaching from the corner.

“Stepping in,” Rasul barks. ’There you go. Back him up with a jab.”

By the sixth, three-minute round, Shevack joins the coaching, and more gym goers crowd ringside as the action intensifies. Ordonez is grunting with his punches. The human eye can’t record the flurry of punches.

“Behind the jab,” Shevack shouts. “Behind the jab.”

The action electrifies the gym and a litany of other young fighters glue their eyes to the bout.

Mendez was 14 when some friends mentioned the gym. “They introduced me to boxing and I said, “Wait, I get to punch people in the face with gloves?' "

Mendez was 9-0 when he suffered his first loss. Then his girlfriend got pregnant, he left the gym, but he stayed with the training on his own. De Berry and Shevack acknowledged his disappearance, and his determination. Mendez soon returned and won his next two fights.

“I had to get settled with the baby – then there was a car crash – there are always little setbacks. That’s life,” he said, hinting at a wisdom beyond his years. “Now, I’m in the best shape of my life. I am ready for the next level of competition.

His quest for pro status drives him. As does his will to provide for his new family. His parents checked out the gym and his mother even worked out there for a few weeks.

“I took her on runs at night,” he smiles. “Some of my friends are out partying and having fun. That is not my path. I can't be hanging around rappers and artists if I want to be a professional boxer. That’s a different world. Everybody has to do it their way. “

He understands the role the gym plays in his life and the lives of others.

“Kids would rather be here and doing something positive,” he said. “You have to get in here and stay away from the streets. Choices. It’s about choices. And I am still making them.

“You can’t have one foot in the streets and one out. You gotta be committed to something.”

He philosophizes in a bit of Muhammed Ali style while he snaps punches: “Skills pays the bills.”

Please support us by turning off your adblocker.

Get unlimited digital access, along with subscriber-exclusive content, and more.

Powered By

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
Read More
Contact Us