60-SECOND INTERVIEW
Paul Wheeler talks to a man with an extensive fistic heritage
‘I STARTED OUT IN THE SPORT AT A YOUNG AGE BECAUSE I COME FROM A BIG BOXING FAMILY’ Sam Cox
When and why you started boxing:
I started from a young age because I come from a big boxing family. My grandad, Bill Cox Snr, was the ABA secretary, while my dad, Bill Cox Jnr, is a leading AIBA official. On my mum’s side, my uncle, Alan Coveley, and my cousin, Gary Coveley, both represented England as boxers.
Favourite all-time fighter:
Vasyl Lomachenko for his amateur achievements and Floyd Mayweather for being a total boxer and businessman.
Best fight you’ve seen:
I was one of the flag-bearers at the 2012 Olympics in London, so I got to see the likes of Lomachenko, Anthony Joshua, Katie Taylor and many more box in the flesh.
Personal career highlight:
As an amateur I reached national finals and won London titles, but it’s hard to top boxing at the O2 Arena on a big Matchroom card as a professional.
Toughest opponent:
As a pro, I’d have to say my most recent opponent in September – Steven Maguire [w pts 6]. He just kept coming.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
My strengths are my boxing IQ, ringcraft and movement. I’m learning to let my hands go more, such as throwing more than three or four punches at once.
Training tip:
Work hard and don’t give in when times are tough.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
A curry at Mr India in Sheerness.
Best friends in boxing:
Sam Bezzina. We met at Repton Boxing Club nearly 15 years ago
‘I MET DAVID BECKHAM ON A SCHOOL TRIP WHEN I WAS 12’
and now he’s my coach.
Other sportsman you would like to be:
I’d be a footballer because the rewards are so high.
Last film/tv show you saw:
I love the series, Power.
Who would play you in a film of your life:
A young Robert De Niro. There’s no better actor.
Have you ever been starstruck:
When I met David Beckham on a school trip to his football academy when I was 12.
Last time you cried:
I cried this week because of how much I miss my mum, who’s passed away. I just want to make her proud.
Best advice received:
‘Shut up and get on with it!’ That was from the legendary trainer, Mickey May.
Worst rumour about yourself:
That I’m 6ft. I’m only 5ft 6ins!
Something not many people know about you:
I like taking three-hour baths – just me alone with my thoughts.