When and why you started boxing:
I started boxing when I was nine years old. I was a bit mischievous, so my dad decided to take me to the gym.
Favourite all-time fighter:
Oscar De La Hoya is my favourite fighter of all time. I named my son after him.
Best fight you’ve seen:
Jamie Moore vs Matthew Macklin is the best domestic fight I’ve seen. On the international scene I’d go for the three Arturo Gatti-Micky Ward fights.
Personal career highlight:
Winning the British [super-welterweight] title outright and challenging for the WBO [super-welterweight] title as the mandatory contender.
Toughest opponent:
My toughest opponent has been Javier Maciel [w sd 12 – October 2013]. I went to hell and back in order to win that fight. I was p**sing blood for a few days afterwards.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
My best attributes are my jab and the fact that I never give up. My worst is that I sometimes get involved in tear-ups instead of using my boxing skills and moving my head.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
Italian restaurants are my favourite.
Best friends in boxing:
My coach Bobby Rimmer and all the lads at the gym. Also Zoe Robinson, who’s a Paralympic gold medallist.
Other sportsperson you would like to be:
I love football but I’m s**t at it! I wouldn’t change my profession. I love punching people and getting punched!
Last film/TV show you saw:
We Own the Night. It’s my favourite film.
Who would play you in a film of your life:
Tom Hardy. I think he’s a top actor.
Have you ever been starstruck:
I was starstruck when I met Oscar De La Hoya. Oh, and also when I met Ashley from Coronation Street!
Last time you cried:
About an hour ago – I’m quite an emotional person!
Best advice received:
Don’t regret anything in life. If you want something, go get it!
Worst rumour about yourself:
I can’t mention the worst rumour that I’ve heard. No comment!
Something not many people know about you:
Most people don’t know that I’m a Birmingham City fan. I love Blackpool but my dad took me to games when we lived in Birmingham when I was growing up, so it’s just in me.
