MACAULEY OWEN
John Dennen speaks to a spiritual man
When and why you started boxing:
I started boxing when I was just 12, had my first fight at 13. I started because I was just a kid who used to think he could fight. I used to enjoy fighting. My dad finally let me go down to the gym in the hope that it would sort me out. It certainly did.
Favourite all-time fighter:
By a long shot, Manny Pacquiao. What he’s done for his country, what he’s done as a boxer. An unbelievable southpaw, punching power, speed, footwork, just unbelievable.
Personal career highlight:
It was always winning the best boxer at the Haringey Box Cup. But since my pro debut it’s got to be that. To get the first round stoppage, everything just fit that day.
Toughest opponent:
It was an Australian international, I boxed him at the Celtic Box Cup. He just punched like an absolute mule.
Best and worst attributes as a boxer:
My worst is I can occasionally switch off. My best I’d say is my punching power and I’d say my grit.
Training tip:
Get as fit as you can in the smartest way possible. People are overdoing it left, right and centre these days. They think it’s good methods of training but they’re actually damaging themselves potentially.
Favourite meal/restaurant:
Yes, Nando’s the Sunset Burger.
Best friends in boxing:
My team around me. When you live boxing you do get a lot of good friends. The best people you find are in the boxing gym.
Other sportsperson you would like to be:
Cristiano Ronaldo, to leave the legacy that he has. It’s a similar thing to what Manny Pacquiao’s done, he’s been the best for so long.
Last film/tv show you saw:
I’m trying to get through Squid Game. Everyone’s built up the hype.
Who would play you in a film of your life:
Ryan Reynolds. I’m definitely full of action but I love to laugh as well.
Last time you cried:
Not long ago they found my mum had skin cancer. It makes you realise you need to make the most of your time with everyone. But it’s all good now.
Best advice received:
To take care of yourself, with everything, your training, your career. Then make sure you look after everyone around you.
Worst rumour about yourself:
I heard one that I lied to Frank Warren in order to get on to the team. It’s a bit bonkers, I don’t have any reason to lie to anyone about my record or anything like that.
Something not many people know about you:
I’m quite spiritual. I’m not religious as such but I do have a lot of faith and I feel like it helps people get to where they need to be. So I do appreciate all religions.