When and why you started boxing:
I started boxing at the age of seven. My father was always a big boxing fan. One time he took me to a boxing club in our city of Cologne and I just fell in love with the sport.
Favourite all-time fighter:
I couldn’t name just one fighter, as this sport has so many incredible athletes. But one boxer who is always in my top five is Bernard Hopkins. I loved to watch him fight.
Best fight you’ve seen:
It’d have to be the first meeting between Andre Berto and Victor Ortiz. That was an all-action fight.
Personal career highlight:
Winning my quarter-final bout at the Youth World Championships in 2010 was a great moment for me. With that win I made history because I became one of the first German athletes to qualify for the inaugural Youth Olympic Games later that year.
Toughest opponent:
The toughest person that I’ve been in the ring with is George Groves. I sparred with him before his fight with Chris Eubank Jnr. He was a very hard and skilful fighter.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
I’d say that my willpower and work ethic are the attributes that have taken me places. My worst attribute? Maybe sometimes I can be a bit too hotheaded!
Training tip:
Always try to have fun, even when the sessions are difficult.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
I don’t have just one favourite meal. I like food in every way. Food is life!
Best friends in boxing:
One of my best friends in the sport is Artur Mann. He’s a very special guy. I hope to see him back in the ring soon.
Other sportsperson you would like to be:
I’d like to be a heavyweight boxer. No weight-making issues – only training and eating!
Last film/TV show you saw:
The last TV series I watched was Money Heist.
Who would play you in a film of your life:
Tom Hardy could play me in an action film!
Have you ever been starstruck:
One time I met Evander Holyfield at a gym in Louisville, Kentucky. It was a surreal experience – meeting a legendary champ who fought in so many big fights, including the two famous ones against Mike Tyson. He’s a true legend of the sport. Of course, I had to get a photo with him. That was definitely my most starstruck moment!
Last time you cried:
I never cry. I only sweat out of my eyes!
Best advice received:
Take care of the people that you love.
Worst rumour about yourself:
I’ve never heard any rumours about myself.
Something not many people know about you:
Not many people know that I love to watch trash TV!
