When and why you started boxing:
I started when I was 12. I watched boxing properly for the first time during the 2004 Olympics and was so intrigued by it.
Favourite all-time fighter:
Either Marco Antonio Barrera or Miguel Cotto. There was no nonsense with them.
Best fight you’ve seen:
Barrera’s first fight with Erik Morales.
Personal career highlight:
The night of my professional debut against Daniils Kucurs [w rsf 1 – September 2016]. I’m sure winning a title soon will overtake that, though!
Toughest opponent:
Gary Cully in the amateurs. He is doing fantastically as a pro now.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
I’m strong for my size and I punch to the body well. However, sometimes I neglect my boxing and get too involved in wars. I’m working on this!
Training tip:
Be consistent and live the life.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
My favourite meal has to be a beef burger with chips, followed by white chocolate cookie dough ice cream for dessert!
Best friends in boxing:
I’ve met so many genuine people in boxing. My manager, Mickey Moo, and his son Michael, who is also my coach, are up there. Then there’s Tony Hudson from the gym and my stablemate, Ryan Walker.
Other sportsman you would like to be:
I wouldn’t want to be anyone else.
Last film/TV show you saw:
I’ll get some stick for this one, but the last thing I watched on TV was EastEnders!
Who would play you in a film of your life:
Dwayne Johnson. Do you not see the resemblance?!
Have you ever been starstruck:
When I was studying at university, Matchroom Boxing were holding a weigh-in around the corner, so I popped along. Someone was in my way, so I tapped on his shoulder and it turned out to be Juan Manuel Marquez!
Last time you cried:
I honestly can’t remember.
Best advice received:
My coach always says that your fans want to see you look good while winning and not getting hit. So there’s no need to get involved in silly scraps.
Worst rumour about yourself:
One of my students started a rumour that I beat Anthony Joshua in a boxing match when we were kids!
Something not many people know about you:
My nickname, ‘The Mathmagician’, comes from me working as a maths teacher alongside my training.
