After more than five decades immersed in the world of professional boxing, Alan Santana - respected boxing veteran, National Boxing Hall of Famer, and now award-winning author has released his powerful second edition, “Unprotected: The Final Round – Navigating the Shark-Infested Waters of Sports, Business & Life.”
Drawing from firsthand experience in the ring and decades of mentoring athletes, Santana delivers a candid, urgent, and deeply insightful guide aimed at educating young athletes about the often hidden dangers of professional sports and business. Whether it's boxing or baseball, the lessons in “Unprotected” are critical for anyone stepping into a competitive career.
“I've witnessed too many professional athletes earn millions of dollars, only to end up completely broke often before their careers have even come to a close,” says Santana. “In today's world of sports and business, education is everything.”
“Unprotected” is more than a memoir - it's a survival guide for aspiring professionals. With clarity and conviction, Santana exposes the financial predators, dishonest advisors, and systemic pitfalls that have plagued athletes for generations. He offers practical advice and strategies for avoiding the same mistakes that have derailed countless careers.
A Book with Real-World Impact
Santana's message has already begun to shape lives off the page. He was recently approached by Dr. Dianna Aguire, head of Mindset Solutions, who will be adapting “Unprotected” into an eight-week course to educate student-athletes on personal finance, career planning, and business decision-making. The course is designed to give young athletes an edge whether they pursue professional sports or transition into business careers.
“This book provides the insight and vision needed to steer clear of dangers and build a sustainable future,” Santana adds. “It's a must-read for anyone serious about succeeding—not just in sports, but in life.”
Award-Winning Recognition
“Unprotected” has been honored with the International Impact Book Award, recognizing its contribution to sports education and athlete empowerment. The book fills a critical gap that traditional education overlooks - teaching young athletes how to protect themselves from financial mismanagement and exploitation.
“Unprotected: The Final Round – Navigating the Shark-Infested Waters of Sports, Business & Life” is available at Simply Best Reads https://simplybestreads.com/product/unprotected-the-final-round-navigating-the-shark-infested-waters-of-sports-business-life-paperback/, Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Unprotected-Final-Round-Navigating-Shark-Infested/dp/1967861196/, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, Bookshop, Walmart, Goodreads, https://alansantana.com/ and other major online retailers and bookstores.
“Unprotected: The Final Round – Navigating the Shark-Infested Waters of Sports, Business & Life”
Written by: Alan Santana
Publisher: Simply Best Reads
Published Date: July 30, 2025
Paperback: $12.95
About the Author
Alan Santana is a business owner. He founded Bay Cities Paving Inc. in 1989, and his company is celebrating its thirty-sixth year in business. He was recently recognized as one of America's Top 1,000 Contractors. He is a distinguished former professional and amateur boxer, and a National Boxing Hall of Famer. Alan Santana is a deeply respected figure in the boxing community who has made a significant mark in the sport. Having served as the President of the World Boxing Foundation North America, he has dedicated his life to supporting and uplifting boxing. His extensive experience includes roles as the North American Coordinator for the American Boxing Organization and the World Boxing Federation. He is currently involved with the World Alliance Boxing Association, where he will oversee three world title fights this November on Catalina Island for promoter John Ellis.
Beyond his accomplishments in the ring, Alan is passionate about mentoring both amateur and professional boxers. He understands the challenges young athletes face and generously shares his knowledge and experiences to guide them on their journey. As an executive member of the National Boxing Hall of Fame, he takes pride in recognizing the achievements of others while fostering a sense of community. His commitment to social betterment has been acknowledged through awards such as the Rising in Community Excellence Award and international recognition for his efforts with teenage drivers in high schools across America.
Alan is also the producer of the impactful TV show Shining the Light, which addresses critical issues affecting young people. Through heartfelt discussions with guests from various fields including sports, healthcare, and entertainment - he aims to spark conversations that matter between parents and their children. He has also produced the following movies: Unprotected: The Final Round, a documentary short on his life story, Rogue Cops, The Narcissist, Barren, and When Death Comes Knocking. His role as an ambassador for Read60 further highlights his dedication to promoting literacy and education, as he believes in the transformative power of knowledge.
As a live ringside commentator for boxing and MMA events, Alan continues to share his passion for the sport, offering insights and encouragement to both spectators and participants alike. His background includes serving as an international boxing judge and being a proud member of the California/USA Boxing Team from 1982 to 1984, where he was honored to achieve titles such as California State Open Division Champion in the 132 lb category and California Amateur State Champion.
With a career marked by a commitment to excellence in boxing and a profound dedication to community service, Alan Santana remains a compassionate and inspiring presence. His unwavering support for individuals of all ages makes him a cherished mentor and a valued voice in the boxing community. As the former President of the World Boxing Foundation North America, he has made significant contributions to the sport, including serving as the North American Coordinator for the American Boxing Organization and the World Boxing Federation, and currently the World Alliance Boxing Association, where he will be supervising three world title fights in November on Catalina Island for promoter John Ellis.
In addition to his boxing achievements, Santana is a passionate mentor to both amateur and professional boxers, sharing his expertise and experience to guide the next generation of athletes. He is also an executive member of the National Boxing Hall of Fame. He has earned accolades such as the Rising in Community Excellence Award and international awards for his work with teenage drivers in high schools across America.
Santana is the producer of the impactful TV show Shining the Light, which addresses critical youth issues through discussions with guests from various fields, including sports, healthcare, and entertainment. His commitment to community engagement extends to his role as an ambassador for Read60, promoting literacy and education.
As a live ringside commentator for boxing and MMA shows, Santana continues to share his insights and passion for the sport. His extensive background includes being an international boxing judge and a member of the California/USA Boxing Team from 1982 to 1984, where he was the California State Open Division 132 lb champion as well as the California Amateur State Champion.
With a career dedicated to excellence in boxing and community service, Alan Santana remains a respected voice in the industry and an inspiring mentor to many of all ages.
For more information, visit www.AlanSantana.com or contact his publicist, Christian Alan, for bookings at 951-463-9790.
— WebWireID342239 —
