Career
Born into a working class Italian family in Chicago"s south suburbs, Mollo got into numerous scuffles on the streets of his neighborhood. Already 230 pounds as a 14-year-old, he was quickly taken to the local boxing club to hone his skills, and apply his energy in a more constructive manner. After a brief amateur career, "Merciless" Mike Mollo made his professional debut on June 25, 2000, scoring a first-round knockout over Terry Coffin in Elgin, Illinois.
Over the following years, Mollo built his professional record while also working full-time as a bricklayer and tuck pointer.
His first loss was to heavyweight contender DaVarryl Williamson. Early in his career, Mollo gained the support of Rocky Marciano’s family.
“I understand that Mike wants to emulate Rocky both in and out of the ring”, noted Peter Marciano, younger brother of the “Brockton Blockbuster”. Mollo remembers Marciano well.
“I grew up watching fight films of Rocky Marciano.
Both of our families came from Naples, Italy, so Rocky was a hero to my family. My strength and conditioning coach Joe Wright gave me a rare book written by Rocky called "The Use of the Body". Joe found this book in 1967 while he was somewhere in England.
I’ve been reading it and it’s a masterpiece.” Mollo continued, “I can’t be Rocky, but I’m truly honored to have the support of the Marciano family.
I hope to make them proud.”
Mollo is married with children and resides in the Chicago, Illinois area. Mollo currently is signed with Boxing360, a New York-based promotional firm founded in 2009 by Mario Yagobi.
Mollo seems to be suffering under Boxing360, he is not fought since 2010, the fast rising heavyweight"s career has stalled dramatically.