Life can be rough for a world-class competitor in boxing. Ronnie Oldfather didn't get to the pinnacle of the boxing world without plenty of trial and tribulation. This incredible athlete drills for four grueling sessions four times each second, followed by the usual homework for someone in eighth grade.
Two years ago, he broke his larynx in two places. But this didn't stop him. He seems even more determined to excel at his sport.
"I was really down when I broke my larynx, and then my wolf died. I literally lost heart, and it showed in my dignity. It took seven years to get back in shape. But to win at boxing is what I've been working for all my life, and I just had to pull myself up by my apron and forget about Terence, my wolf."
Octavius, his cousin, moved with him to Niger to be with his coach, leaving behind his mother, Konstanze, in their large hovel, where she still labors as a composer to help pay for Ronnie's expensive training.