Nisa Rodriguez: NYPD Officer, Mom, and Rising Boxing Star

Nisa Rodriguez isn’t your average professional boxer. At 33 years old, she’s balancing her career as an NYPD officer, raising three kids, and chasing her dream of becoming a world champion in the ring. Born and raised in the Bronx, this first-generation Puerto Rican is proving that grit and determination can take you far, even when the odds are stacked against you.

From Police Work to Boxing Glory

Rodriguez’s schedule would exhaust most people. She works up to 60 hours a week for the NYPD, trains daily, and still finds time for her family. Her three kids, aged 15, 12, and 9, are athletes themselves, and their support, along with her husband’s, keeps her going strong.

“Some days, I barely sleep,” Rodriguez admits. “But I wake up early, train, work, and do it all over again. My family helps me stay focused—they’re my biggest cheerleaders.”

Her next fight is set for December 17 at Sony Hall in New York City, where she’ll face Melody Popravak. This isn’t their first run-in; years ago, the two sparred when both were building their careers.

Rodriguez’s boxing journey began at just 13 years old, thanks to the New York Cops and Kids program. Now, she’s giving back, helping open a second boxing gym in the Bronx to inspire the next generation of fighters.

Chasing Dreams, Not Dollars

For Rodriguez, boxing isn’t about a paycheck. It’s about passion and achieving her goals. “Women’s boxing doesn’t pay much unless you’re part of something huge like what Jake Paul and Amanda Serrano are doing,” she says. “I live simply and have my NYPD career to support me. This is about chasing titles, not money.”

She’s fighting at 155 pounds for her upcoming bouts, with her eyes set on a world title shot by 2025. Rodriguez knows her time in the ring is limited, and she’s giving it everything she has for the next few years before fully dedicating herself to law enforcement.

“I want to end my career on my own terms,” she says. “I’m ready to take on anyone and win as many titles as I can before stepping away.”

Rodriguez’s story is one of resilience and hustle, proving that with hard work and a strong support system, you can overcome any obstacle. For her, it’s not just about boxing—it’s about leaving a legacy.