JOSHUA WAHAB

Andrew Fairley talks to a Nigerian fighter preparing to make his British debut this weekend

When and why you started boxing:

I had so much passion for boxing and believe I can become a world champion. I am also a professional dancer. But I decided to stop dancing and focus fully in boxing. I had to travel down to Ghana from Nigeria to chase my dream of becoming a professional boxer.

Favourite all-time fighter:

Azumah Nelson; I love Azumah so much. He really inspired me as the [greatest] African boxer of all-time. He gave me the opportunity to fight my first national [Ghanaian] title fight on his promotion in 2016 called Azumah Nelson Fight Night. That’s where people recognised my talents as a boxer and the rest is history. Azumah advised me to always work hard in and outside the gym.

Best fight you’ve seen:

Floyd Mayweather v Miguel Cotto. What I learned from the fight is, as a boxer, whenever you’re going into the ring, you need to have your plan A, B and C because anything can happen, so you need to be ready.

Personal career highlight:

Looking at my record and being undefeated after 22 fights, no losses and no draws. It’s really a big achievement for me and t’s never been an easy task.

Toughest opponent:

Abraham Osei Bonsu. He was a very strong, tough and aggressive opponents. He brought out the best in me and ever since I defeated him I’ve improved in so many ways.

Best and worst attributes as a boxer:

My strength comes from Allah. I don’t think I have a weakness because my body, my mind and my soul are all connected to boxing. Whenever I’m training or about to go to training, I’m always happy. I love boxing, I think it’s part of me forever.

Training tip:

Very simply, work hard.

Favourite meal/restaurant:

My favourite meal is rice and chicken and my favourite restaurant is KFC.

Best friends in boxing:

None.

Which other athlete would you like to be and why?

I have no interest in any other sports besides boxing. All I want to do is be a boxer, and be a world champion.

Last film/tv show you saw:

I don’t like films. I mostly watch comedy shows to relax myself and laugh out loud.

Have you ever been starstruck:

Only with the boxing legend Azumah Nelson!

Last time you cried:

Three years ago. The tears of joy knowing I am now a father when my wife gave birth to my son. It was a beautiful and amazing feeling that I can never forget.

Best advice received:

Be consistent and have discipline.

Something not many people know about you:

Most people don’t know I was a professional dancer before becoming a professional boxer.