When and why you started boxing:
I first started boxing in the year 2000 when I was 11 years old. The sport appealed to me because it meant that I could punch people in the face and not get into any trouble for it! I also liked the idea of being able to travel around the world, which boxing gives you the opportunity to do.
Favourite all-time fighter:
Larry Holmes is my favourite fighter of all time. He had a great jab and I love the way he mastered the ring. I try to imitate his style of boxing because he’s my idol.
Best fight you’ve seen:
When Amir Imam fought Walter Castillo he put on a masterful boxing clinic. He was superb that night.
Personal career highlight:
My best achievement so far is winning the WBA [secondary] heavyweight championship last month against Bermane Stiverne [via 11th-round stoppage].
Toughest opponent:
I’d say Stiverne. He put up a good fight.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
My best attribute is my jab. My worst is not listening to my corner enough.
Training tip:
Train hard, even when you don’t have a fight scheduled.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
I can’t say that I have a favourite meal or restaurant.
Best friends in boxing:
Me, myself and I.
Other sportsperson you would like to be:
I’ve never wanted to be anyone else.
Last film/TV show you saw:
I’ve been watching a couple of TV shows recently – Snowfall and Queen of the South.
Who would play you in a film of your life:
I think Tyler Perry is a very good actor.
Have you ever been starstruck:
I’ve never been starstruck.
Last time you cried:
I cried before my final sparring session ahead of my fight with Stiverne, when I received the bad news that my cousin had passed away.
Best advice received:
My co-manager, Massiah Eaddy, told me that if I keep praying and never give up, then I will be blessed.
Worst rumour about yourself:
I haven’t heard any rumours about myself.
Something not many people know about you:
I almost lost my left leg when I was a young child.
