James Derick Kirkland was born March 19, 1984 to Paula Kirkland. He grew up with his 2 brothers in Austin, Texas. At age 7 he started training with Donald “Pops” Billingsley who has coached him for the last 16 years, the last 12 years alongside ANN WOLFE™. During this time “Mandingo” has amassed an impressive amateur record of 138 Wins -12 Losses.

The former Golden Gloves Champion has placed 2^nd at both the 2000 Junior Olympic National Championships and 2001 National Golden Gloves Tournament. His professional record of 19-0-0 includes 16 Knock Outs. He is ranked 6^th in the United States and 17^th in the world.

James is the proud father of James, his 2 year old child with long-time girlfriend Vanessa. James and Vanessa’s family recently expanded to include a little boy who arrived today August 28, 2007.

James is a southpaw with a 70 inch reach who stands 5’9” tall and currently fights as a Jr. Middleweight at 154 pounds. James currently trains with Pops and ANN WOLFE™ at ANN WOLFE™ Boxing & Fitness in Austin.