I never felt older and slower than I did when I climbed into a boxing ring for a quasi-sparring session with the New York Golden Gloves Heavyweight Champion.

I actually outweigh Ngo Okafor by five pounds, but he’s taller, much stronger, quicker and has a much better reach. But I’m 15 years older and wiser, so … yeah, that’s no help.

Ngo just started boxing a couple years ago as part of his workout regiment and he apparently impressed some real fighters. One of them suggested he get in the ring and soon he decided to get serious and chase the crown.

We profiled him because at 33, he’s one of the oldest title holders (once you reach 35 you can’t fight for the Novice Championship) and he’s also an actor and model and very intelligent and had an interesting story to tell. (You can see more at getingo.com)

I survived our sparring match, but only because Ngo took it easy on me (he probably figured the story might change if he broke my face). He slapped me about a dozen times and could’ve knocked me flat pretty much anytime he wanted. I definitely have a greater appreciation for the sport and his skills and his mercy … and now I think both of us are retiring from boxing.