BIOGRAPHY

     Family - Joey was born in Winneconne, Wisconsin in May of 1981. He is the second oldest of five children (Kristi, Kendall, Britni, and Kevin) born to Joe and Wendi Abell.

     Education - Joey attended Champlin Park High School graduating in 2000. He went on to attend South Dakota State and received a degree in Public Education and Recreation.

      Interests - Growing up, Joey’s main sports interests were football and boxing. He played on many youth teams and later became a starter at defensive end his junior year at Champlin Park H.S. which made it to the State finals before losing to Woodbury H.S. Joey set the single season sack record that year and in his senior year was named to all Conference Team, all Metro Team, and all State Team. Joey's other interests include the study of animals and birds.

     Football - Joey played defensive end and long snapper during his four years at South Dakota State in addition to being a stand out special teams player. He was invited to the NFL combine and had conversations with the Arizona Cardinals, Minnesota Vikings, and Green Bay Packers about turning pro.  He was also offered a contract with arena football, but turned his interests toward professional boxing.

     Boxing - Joey started boxing in the eighth grade and boxed in Golden Gloves until turning pro in 2005.  He went to multiple National bouts representing Upper Midwest Boxing.  He had a four year lay-off  during his college years as he was not allowed to box and play football for South Dakota State.