When and why you started boxing:
I started boxing seriously at 27, after eight years of professional rugby. I’d done bits when I was younger but never seriously, as rugby was my main focus.
Favourite all-time fighter:
Growing up, I always thought that Lennox Lewis was the man. I still look back at his fights and study his style.
Best fight you’ve seen:
The two Tyson Fury-Deontay Wilder fights are definitely up there, but I’d go for Anthony Joshua vs Wladimir Klitschko. It had everything that you could ask for in a heavyweight fight.
Personal career highlight:
As an amateur, winning the Scottish Elite title in 2019 was important to me. Making my pro debut on a Sky Sports show was also special.
Toughest opponent:
I had some close fights with Delicious Orie in the amateurs. He’s a slick operator.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
I’m still a novice. I’ve only had 17 bouts in total, pro and amateur, so I’m learning all the time.
Training tip:
Give it your all and have belief in yourself. If you have a good team around you, make sure to listen to them.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
Steak and chips is the way to my heart! I like it medium-rare, with a nice garlic butter sauce.
Best friends in boxing:
The greatest manager of all time, Mark Dunlop! In all seriousness, I’ve been blessed with a lot of good friends in boxing, but a special mention should go to Stewart Burt, Allan and Ben Murray, Dave Lund and Jamie Cunningham.
Other sportsperson you would like to be:
Henrik Larsson. He was one of my heroes growing up.
Last film/TV show you saw:
I recently rewatched The Sopranos for about the fifth time. It’s the greatest series ever.
Have you ever been starstruck:
Yes, when I met the current European cruiserweight champion, Tommy McCarthy.
Last time you cried:
It was a few months ago when I saw a picture of my old dog, Jimi. I miss the old boy a lot.
Best advice received:
Keep your circle small. The people with your best interests at heart are the people who have been there since the beginning.
Worst rumour about yourself:
That I’m a former sparring partner of Anthony Joshua! I’ve never had the chance to share a ring with the big man, but it’d be a genuine honour to do so.
Something not many people know about you:
I can play the guitar and we love a good sing-song in between rounds at the Belfast Kronk gym!
