CONNOR GRAY

Andrew Fairley speaks to a boxer who wishes he was a little bit taller

When and why you started boxing:

I grew up very ‘rough’ and I quickly realised I needed to know how to defend myself.

Favourite all-time fighter:

Roy Jones Jnr.

Best fight you’ve seen:

My favourite would have to be the middleweight scrap between Marvin Hagler and Tommy Hearns.

Personal career highlight:

It would have to be when I dropped former English champion Louis Norman in the sixth and final round of our fight in September 2023.

Toughest opponent:

To be honest, they’ve all been tough. But if I had to name one it would be Jamie Sampson, who I outpointed over six last year.

Best and worst attributes as a boxer:

My best would be being humble, consistent and focused and my worst would have to be the fridge!

Training tip:

Just stay focused!

Favourite meal/restaurant:

A steak at Miller & Carter.

Best friends in boxing:

My coaches and everyone I train with at the gym.

Which other athlete would you like to be:

I couldn’t imagine doing anything other than boxing but David Beckham’s bank account would be nice.

Who would play you in a film of your life:

Taron Egerton because he’s a stud like me.

One thing you’d change about boxing:

There’s got to be something that can be done about the bad decisions. I’d also like to see more financial support for all the small gyms.

Have you ever been starstruck:

No, not really. I see everyone as being equal.

Last time you cried:

I can’t remember.

Best advice received:

To stick with the people you started out with.

Worst rumour about yourself:

I’ve heard it said that I’m not a big puncher. That’s a bad and untrue rumour.

Something not many people know about you:

I tell everyone I’m 5ft 8ins but, really, I am actually 6ft.

‘THERE’S GOT TO BE SOMETHING THAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT THE BAD DECISIONS. I’D ALSO LIKE TO SEE MORE FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR ALL THE SMALL GYMS’