It was hard keeping on top of the bills, when you’re a fighter, pay comes inconsistently and then you have training expenses and its hard to hold a regular job.
Mike was a well-muscled heavyweight, not a large heavyweight like most of the giants in the game. He was instead considered to be a small-heavy. At 186cm (6′ 2″) and 95 kg (209lbs) he was still a fair sized lad. He was quick to smile and stayed in shape even between fights. He did not have any grand aspirations as to being the world champ, but he did want to give his best in each of his fights.
He was still young at 20 and single. Mike’s other income came from working at a video store. Not much money, but it was at least consistent.
One night after coming home from training, his landlord stopped him in the hallway outside his apartment. A tall brunette in her mid-30s. She was attractive for her age, and you could tell from her face, and trim body that when she younger she was a definite head turner.
She smiled at him as he walked by, his gray singlet still soaked in sweat and his toned arms glistening in the hallway light. “Hey Mike, you know you’re behind on rent.” She was trying to be assertive yet friendly.
“Yes I know Ms. Phillips. I’ll be able to pay you tomorrow when I get paid.” He said smiling back at her. He was hoping that she had forgotten how late he was because he would need the money to pay his yearly gym membership.
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