Why did you want to get into boxing?
It was my cousin that got me into boxing, he introduced me to the Finchley ABC Boxing Club and that was that! The more I did it, the more I started noticing improvements. I really enjoyed that I was doing something positive, something I could really see a future in. I felt like I was made for the sport.
Who’s your boxing idol?
There have been so many great fighters so choosing a particular one is difficult but if I had to, I would say Mike Tyson, he was incredibly explosive.
Which fight do you think is your best to date?
That is difficult to answer as every fight has been different and every fight has had its own individual challenges. Obviously winning Gold at the Olympics was an amazing moment for me and was a great fight. The Silver medal at the World Amateur Championships was a great moment for me too.
How often do you train in the run up to a big match?
I train about five hours a day on average during my training camp. When it gets closer to a fight, training gets more focused and I have to start to deal with the media element of boxing. Discipline is absolutely key when it comes to training.
Talk us through your daily fitness routine.
I get up at 4.30am so I can be out on the road running by 5am. I will get back and have a healthy breakfast, normally poached eggs then porridge; I normally have the same thing every day. I exercise pretty much all day. Starting with cardio first thing, followed by bag and pad work and sparring. Exactly what I do changes the closer I get to a fight.
How do you manage to stay so humble with all the attention you get?
Having a good team around me. They keep me in check. I couldn't do it without them guiding me, both inside and outside of the ring. You have to keep family around you too, the support network is invaluable.
Why did you decide to embark on the fcuk fear brand affiliation?
I see similarities between what fcuk are doing with ‘fear’ and where I am going in my career. The last boxer fcuk worked with was Lennox Lewis, the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, he didn't let anything get in his way. I'm working alongside French Connection and I know the belief they have in me, I will stand proud and I won't let anything get in my way either.
The fcuk fear brand is progressing alongside you, do you feel the new lines reflect your personal style as much as the last?
For sure, even more so I would say. I like to look good. You are what you wear and I like to look clean and classy away from the ring. The fit is so important for me too and the French Connection team have done an amazing job on the new range.