60-SECOND INTERVIEW

Paul Wheeler talks to a man who was ordered to do press-ups by David Haye

‘WHEN I WAS 14, I ASKED DAVID HAYE FOR A PHOTO AND HE TOLD ME TO DO 20 PRESS-UPS, SO I DID!’ Liam Dillon

When and why you started boxing:

I started at Waltham Forest ABC when I was 12. Me and a few mates just wanted to try it out. I was hooked immediately.

Favourite all-time fighter:

Micky Ward. He had some great fights, a very entertaining style and a vicious left hook to the body.

Best fight you’ve seen:

When my stablemate, Matthew Chanda, fought Duke Micah. It was a real war. I still think Matthew should’ve got the decision.

Personal career highlight:

Turning professional was such a proud moment.

Toughest opponent:

Dean Evans in May [w pts 6]. He came out to put on a show. I learned a lot from that fight.

Best and worst attributes as a boxer:

My biggest asset, I’ve been told, is my strength. My weakness is that I spend too much time in the gym and not enough time resting.

Training tip:

Surround yourself with good people who wish to see you succeed. I’ve got this far because I’ve had great people around me at the Team Sparta 300 Gym in Chingford.

Favourite meal/restaurant:

I love a curry from Number 1 The Avenue in Highams Park.

Best friends in boxing:

Everyone at Team Sparta 300, especially Ian Wilson, Steve Kipps, Bob Kipps, Matthew Chanda and Patrick Sandy. Plus the Orion Harriers.

Other sportsman you would like to be:

Eden Hazard from Chelsea FC, because he’s incredible.

‘I’VE NEVER HEARD A BAD RUMOUR ABOUT ME. I’M TOO LOVED!’

Last film/tv show you saw: I recently watched Man Up with my girlfriend. For a chick flick it wasn’t that bad.

Who would play you in a film of your life:

There’s only one actor who could fill my shoes and that’s Idris Elba. He’s very talented, so portraying a young white boxer shouldn’t be too difficult for him!

Have you ever been starstruck:

I met David Haye when I was about 14. I asked him for a photo and he told me to do 20 press-ups, which I did!

Last time you cried:

About a year ago when I lost one of my dogs.

Best advice received:

Never give up. The only way to achieve is to persevere.

Worst rumour about yourself:

I’ve never heard a bad rumour being spread about me. I’m too loved!

Something not many people know about you:

When I was 12, me and my mates dressed up as mimes and won a talent competition.