60-SECOND INTERVIEW
Paul Wheeler talks to a man who is often reduced to tears by the weight-making process
‘YOU NEED TO HAVE MENTAL TOUGHNESS AND CONTROL IN ALL PARTS OF YOUR LIFE’ Luther Clay
When and why you started boxing:
I got into boxing relatively late as an amateur at 15 years old. I then moved into the pro game at 18, after being spotted by coaches due to my extraordinary ability.
Favourite all-time fighter:
I have a number of favourites, but Marvin Hagler and Roberto Duran stand out. They’re my type of fighters because of their style and skill.
Best fight you’ve seen:
Hagler versus Thomas Hearns and Duran’s first fight with Sugar Ray Leonard. Live, it’d be the Kell Brookerrol Spence Jnr fight.
Personal career highlight:
Boxing on the George Groveschris Eubank Jnr World Boxing Super Series undercard in Manchester [in February 2018]. I beat Danny Craven on points in a six-rounder.
Toughest opponent:
I went over to Russia and sparred some hard punchers who had an aggressive and relentless style.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
My main strengths are my power, fitness, durability and defence. My weakness is a lack of experience, as I only had a few amateur fights.
Training tip:
You need to have mental toughness – control your emotions and stay disciplined, not just in the gym but in all parts of your life.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
I like anything that’s bad for me! Stuff like pizza, chips, chocolate and cakes!
Best friends in boxing:
My trainer [Gennadii Gordienko] and my manager [Al Siesta].
‘I LIKE ANYTHING THAT’S BAD FOR ME! PIZZA, CHIPS, CHOCOLATE AND CAKES!’
Other sportsman you would like to be:
Either Bernard Hopkins, Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao or Julio Cesar Chavez Snr.
Last film/tv show you saw:
The last film I watched was
Avengers: Infinity War. The last TV series was [ Japanese anime] Dragon Ball Super.
Who would play you in a film of your life:
John Boyega can play me.
Have you ever been starstruck:
No, I can’t say that I have.
Last time you cried:
I’ve cried several times in the past when having to make weight!
Best advice received:
Stay in shape, stay focused and don’t take things personally.
Worst rumour about yourself:
That I’m a hard-headed and stubborn person.
Something not many people know about you:
I’m a big nerd. I like watching anime and sci-fi series.