60-SECOND INTERVIEW
Paul Wheeler talks to a man who loved the energy of Mike Tyson fights
‘I STARTED BOXING AT 22 WHEN I WAS EXPECTING MY DAUGHTER. SHE GAVE ME THE DRIVE’ Shakan Pitters
When and why you started boxing:
I first started boxing at 22 years old when I was expecting my daughter. She gave me the drive to want to do well to set her on the best path in life.
Favourite all-time fighter:
Tommy Hearns for his aggression and shot selection, and Floyd Mayweather for his ability to be very adaptable and smart in the ring.
Best fight you’ve seen:
I used to love watching Mike Tyson fights. You could feel the energy through the TV.
Personal career highlight:
Fighting on Amir Khan’s undercard in my hometown of Birmingham and also winning my first major professional title – the English light-heavyweight title.
Toughest opponent:
Dec Spelman, who I’ve fought twice [w ud 3 – November 2018 & w ud 10 – September 2019].
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
I’ll leave my strengths and weaknesses for the critics to speculate on. I just keep working in the gym to be the best allround fighter I can be.
Training tip:
Always go hard. Boxing’s not here forever for any fighter, so it’s always important to give the best account of yourself in training and in fights.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
It’s got to be Caribbean food. Jerk chicken and steamed fish with hard food and dumplings.
Best friends in boxing:
I’d class my gym-mates as my best friends, as we know each other really well.
Other sportsman you would like to be:
I’d only like to be Shakan Pitters.
Last film/tv show you saw:
The Michael Jordan documentary series on Netflix – The Last Dance.
Who would play you in a film of your life:
Myself, but if I had to choose someone else it’d be Michael B. Jordan or Idris Elba.
Have you ever been starstruck:
I don’t get starstruck. I appreciate everyone as a person – celebrity or not – as we’re all just human.
Last time you cried:
I’m not really the emotional type but I’ve had my moments.
Best advice received:
Treat people as you wish to be treated yourself.
Worst rumour about yourself:
I’ve not heard any rumours about myself. Sadly though, there’s been a few fake social media profiles pretending to be me.
Something not many people know about you:
I passed law at college, I like to cook and I worked in a warehouse during my first two years as a professional boxer.
‘I APPRECIATE EVERYONE. WE’RE ALL JUST HUMAN’