John Roby knows the value of rising after being knocked down, both in the ring and in life.
The Fort Dodge native emphasizes that recovering from setbacks is as crucial in life as in boxing.
Keep Moving Forward
“Please don’t give up,” Roby said. “Keep moving. Stay positive.”
He draws on his boxing career and post-boxing life as examples of persistence.
“I had the heart to get knocked down and keep rising no matter what anyone says,” he added.
Inspiring Youth
Roby has shared his message with Iowa youth for years and will bring it to Michigan next week.
On September 19 and 20, he will visit Grand Rapids to engage with local communities.
He will speak at groups like the Boys Club and sign copies of his book, The Belt of Wisdom.
Michigan Connections
Roby first built connections in Michigan about eight years ago and has visited five times since.
On each trip, he repeats the same advice: keep getting up and keep trying to become a champion.
Family Inspiration
Roby credits his mother, Juanita Mosley Roby, as his lifelong inspiration.
“She made me a world champion,” he said. “She never stopped believing in me.”
