A profound moment in life can often come from unexpected places, such as a casual encounter with a legendary figure. For David Magnusson, this defining moment happened after a meeting where Angelo Dundee, the renowned boxing trainer, imparted wisdom that transcended the confines of the ring. This meeting reshaped Magnusson’s outlook on life, emphasizing values far beyond physical prowess.

Throughout his career, Magnusson had been deeply immersed in boxing, not just as a participant but also as a referee who prioritized safety over spectacle. His journey began long before he found himself at a Broward County gathering in the late 2000s. There, amidst discussions about upcoming tournaments, Magnusson was captivated by the presence of Angelo Dundee, a man known for shaping some of history’s greatest boxers. As fate would have it, their paths crossed in an unassuming setting—after the official agenda concluded.

Magnusson seized the opportunity to engage Dundee in conversation, sharing snippets of his own boxing journey and expressing admiration for Dundee’s work, particularly through his connection to Miami Beach via Chris Dundee. During their brief walk to their cars, Magnusson posed a question that seemed simple yet carried immense weight: what advice could Dundee offer to aspiring boxers? The response was both humbling and transformative—"Be a nice guy." Repeated twice, these words resonated deeply within Magnusson, reinforcing the importance of kindness and respect outside the ring.

Inspired by Dundee’s counsel, Magnusson embraced a philosophy centered on empathy and integrity, qualities that transcend athletic achievements. Life itself becomes a championship fight requiring resilience, humility, and compassion. Through four simple words, Dundee became a mentor guiding Magnusson through life’s complexities. Such timeless advice serves as a reminder that true greatness lies not merely in victories but in how one carries themselves throughout their journey.