CHICAGO, IL– James Chittenden of Tampa fought in the 2025 Chicago Golden Gloves Masters Tournament on Saturday, June 28. Golden Gloves events are America’s oldest and among the most prestigious of amateur boxing franchises, and boxers above the age of 41 are classified as Masters boxers. At 6’0 and 213 pounds, Chittenden entered the ring as a super heavyweight and won his fight via unanimous decision.
Chittenden was one of dozens of registered Masters boxers to register, train for, and compete in the Chicago Golden Gloves Masters Tournament, but the only one from Tampa. He has boxed in Tampa and throughout Florida and compiled a winning record, including an Atlanta city championship in 2021. He is the CEO of One Click Advisor, a business planning platform that helps entrepreneurs obtain capital as well as visas for foreign entrepreneurs and investors. In addition, he is a Florida professional combat sports official and amateur boxing referee and coach.
James Chittenden was inducted into the Florida MMA Hall of Fame in 2024.
Questions/Answers
Q1. Is Golden Gloves an Olympic qualifier?
A1. Not directly. However, the U.S. Olympic Trials include a large number of Golden Gloves champions. Master boxers are an exception and do not qualify for the Olympic Trials. The age limit for boxers in Olympic events is 35.
Q2. What are the weight classes for amateur boxing?
A2. Please see: USA Boxing Weight Categories
Q3. Are amateur boxers paid?
A3. No. Professional boxers are paid, but amateur boxers are not. Current or former professional boxers are not eligible to compete in amateur boxing events.
Q4. Who sets rules for, or sanctions amateur boxing?
A4. USA Boxing sets rules and regulations, and all fights sanctioned under USA Boxing are subject to the boxing or athletic commission of the state where the events are held.
Q5. What are the qualifications for Masters Boxers?
A5. As boxers who are over the age of 41, they are subject to rigorous annual physical and medical examinations. They may not compete against boxers younger than 35, and may only compete with boxers within 10 years of their age. For more details, see USA Boxing/Masters Boxers.
Q6. I am interested in getting in the ring and boxing. Where do I start?
A6. Simply find a local boxing gym and ask to try it for a day! It will not take long to see if this sport is for you.
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