Vito Mielnicki couldn’t have been more successful in his first two fights with trainer Ronnie Shields: two outings, two first-round knockouts.
Yes, the 154-pound contender from New Jersey has come a significant distance since he made his professional debut at 17 years old at 140 pounds in 2019.
Mielnicki (17-1, 12 KOs) is physically more mature at 21. And he has grown as a fighter in his 18 professional bouts, which includes a devastating loss in April 2021.
He’s scheduled to face Ronald Cruz (19-3-1, 12 KOs) on the Canelo Alvarez-Jaime Munguia card on May 4 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
“I’ve brown leaps and bounds since I made my pro debut, physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually,” said Mielnicki, who works with Shields in Houston.
A majority decision loss to James Martin played a significant role in that growth, he said.
It gave him an opportunity to assess his preparation and mind set. And, most important, it hardened his resolve because he never wants to experience the agony of defeat again.
“It was probably the best thing that has happened in my career,” he said. “It taught me a valuable lesson … you can never take for granted somebody (Martin, in this case) who likely came prepared to the best of their ability.
“… It sticks with me every day. I don’t want to feel that feeling again.”
Mielnicki bounced back from the setback by winning nine consecutive fights, seven by knockout.
The last two stand out, the quick stoppages of Alexis Salazar and Salim Larbi. It might not be a coincidence that he had the respected Shields in his corner for both fights.
Mielnick has benefitted from sparring dozens of rounds with another Shields protege, Jermall Charlo, just one of many elite fighters with whom Mielnicki has worked.
However, he made it clear that he has thrived in Shields’ system overall.
“Ronnie is different,” Mielnicki said. “I told everybody the same thing: He’s so consistent. The gym opens at this time, it closes at this time. We’re going to work on this today, on this tomorrow.
“The schedule, the routine creates a strong foundation that helps you grow. You’ve seen in it in my last two fights.”
Mielnicki is ranked No. 4 by the WBA, meaning he’s closing in on showdowns with fellow contenders.
He’s in no rush, however. He’s committed to the learning process at the moment, which is necessary if he hopes to take full advantage of the opportunities that will come if he continues to win.
“There’s no timetable,” he said. “… I’ll continue to level up my competition. That’s the only way to grow as a fighter. My time is going to come according to God’s plan.
“And when the time comes, I’ll be ready.”
